EconomyChina
China's H1 GDP Grows 4.7% as Economy Shows Resilience
China's H1 2026 GDP grew 4.7% to 69.57 trillion yuan, with Q2 at 4.3%. First-tier city housing prices rose for the fourth consecutive month.
—5 min read
Category
Economy
837 articles
LegalEconomy
China Proposes Unified Tax Penalty Standards Nationwide
China proposes unified national tax penalty standards to reduce arbitrary enforcement and ensure consistent treatment for businesses across all regions.
—4 min read
Economy
Russian Diesel Ban Pushes Belgian Fuel to Two-Month High
Russia's diesel export ban, triggered by Ukrainian strikes on refineries, pushes Belgian diesel to €2.145/litre — highest since May 2026.
—4 min read
Consumer ProtectionEconomy
Belgium Mandates Faster Bank Refunds for Phishing Victims
Belgian Minister Rob Beenders proposes legislation forcing banks to reimburse phishing victims within one day, shifting burden of proof to banks.
—4 min read
DefenseEconomy
FN Herstal Wins Landmark French Army Ammunition Contract
FN Herstal wins a 15-year contract to supply 75 million rounds of ammunition per year to the French Army, ending France's 27-year domestic production gap.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Road Vignette to Cost Belgian Businesses 55 Million Euros
Belgium's new road vignette system will cost businesses and commercial van owners an estimated 55 million euros annually, documents reveal.
—5 min read
International ConflictEconomy
US and Iran Trade Strikes for Sixth Day as Diplomacy Hangs
US and Iran escalate attacks for a sixth day, striking near Tehran and in the Strait of Hormuz, as hostage release hints at possible diplomacy.
—6 min read
EconomySocial Policy
Social Security COLA Forecast: 3.8% in 2027
New forecasts project a 3.8% Social Security COLA for 2027, pushing average monthly benefits above $2,000 for the first time amid persistent inflation.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Warsh Vows to Beat Inflation, Defend Fed Independence
Fed Chair Kevin Warsh told Congress inflation won't persist on his watch, announced five task forces, and defended the central bank's independence.
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
China's H1 Trade Surges 16.9% as High-Tech Exports Jump 39%
China's H1 2026 goods trade hit 25.47 trillion yuan, up 16.9% YoY. High-tech exports surged 39%, driven by AI and advanced manufacturing.
—4 min read
EconomyPolicy
China Overhauls Land Reserve System in Landmark Reform
China restructures its 25-year-old land reserve system, shifting from land-centric city management to a model balancing economic and ecological values.
—5 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Grain Harvest Hits Record 301.5 Billion kg
China's summer grain harvest reached a record 301.5 billion kg in 2026, overcoming severe autumn floods through technology and policy support.
—4 min read
Real EstateEconomy
China's June Housing Declines Narrow, Signaling Stability
China's June housing data shows narrowing year-on-year price declines across all city tiers, with first-tier cities posting fourth straight monthly gains.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
PBOC Injects 1.4 Trillion Yuan in Record Repo Operation
China's PBOC conducts record 1.4 trillion yuan 6-month reverse repo, injecting 500 billion yuan net to support banking stability and economic recovery.
—4 min read
SocietyEconomy
China's Skilled Workforce Surpasses 220 Million
China's skilled workforce exceeds 220 million, with high-skilled talent surpassing 72 million, driving industrial upgrading and technological innovation.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
Yiwu's Rapid Supply Chain Drives Europe Cooling Boom
As a European heatwave drives demand, Yiwu's ultra-fast supply chain delivers fans, cooling towels, and smart devices to consumers across the continent.
—6 min read
EconomyAviation
China's Big Three Airlines Face 7.3B Yuan H1 Losses on Fuel
China's three major airlines expect combined H1 losses of at least 7.3 billion yuan as surging fuel prices driven by Middle East conflict erode profits.
—4 min read
Economy
China's H1 GDP Grows 4.7% as Economy Shows Mixed Signals
China's H1 2026 GDP grew 4.7% year-on-year to 69.57 trillion yuan, with strong exports and high-tech manufacturing offsetting a real estate slump.
—4 min read
EconomyClimate
Belgians Pay 15x More for Gas as Industry Gets Free Quotas
Belgian households pay 15x more in gas taxes than industry, while polluters get billions in free EU emission quotas. Greenpeace exposes the disparity.
—4 min read
EconomySocial Policy
Wallonia's Zero-Unemployment Pilot: 260 Jobs at Risk
Wallonia's TerritoiR'ES program created 265 jobs for long-term unemployed, but funding ends in 2026 and the minister says the pilot cannot continue as-is.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium Rejects Bpost Plan to Close 30 Post Offices
Belgium rejects Bpost's plan to close 30 post offices and 500 postal points over regional imbalance and insufficient savings.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium's Flexi-Jobs Under Fire Over Job Displacement Study
Belgian ministers clash over flexi-jobs as new study shows they may displace regular jobs in hospitality, raising fiscal sustainability questions.
—5 min read
Economy
Diesel Price in Belgium to Hit Two-Month High on Thursday
Belgium's diesel price rises to EUR 2.145/L on July 16, the highest since May, driven by renewed US-Iran conflict and Strait of Hormuz disruptions.
—5 min read
EconomyTransport
Brussels Airport Posts 3.6% Passenger Growth in First Half
Brussels Airport handled 11.7 million passengers in H1 2026, up 3.6%, and 420,000 tonnes of cargo (+8.3%) despite strikes and Middle East disruptions.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Brussels Horeca Crisis: Industry Threatens Boycott of Pols
Brussels hospitality sector threatens to refuse service to politicians as Thai Cafe owner slams Minister Van Peteghem over broken flexi-jobs promises.
—4 min read
EconomyUS
Inflation Cools in June as Gas Prices Fall, Easing Fed
US inflation fell to 3.5% in June as gas prices dropped 9.7%, the largest CPI decline in four years. Core inflation eased, reducing pressure on the Fed.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Bipartisan Senators Offer Social Security Rescue Plan
Bipartisan senators introduced the PROMISE Act to address Social Security's looming insolvency, forcing congressional action on the program's finances.
—5 min read
BusinessEconomy
Jamie Dimon Understands Why Americans Have Grown Anti-Rich
JPMorgan Chase CEO Jamie Dimon acknowledges working families have been left behind, validating anti-rich sentiment amid growing economic inequality debate.
—4 min read
EconomyInternational
China GDP Growth Slows to 4.3%, Weakest Since 2022 Lockdowns
China's Q2 GDP grew just 4.3%, the slowest in over three years, as weak domestic demand and a property slump offset surging exports.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
China Unveils First Five-Year Plan to Boost Consumption
China's State Council approves the 15th Five-Year Plan for Expanding Consumption, targeting 60 trillion yuan in retail sales by 2030.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Li Qiang Chairs Economic Symposium, Signals H2 Support
Premier Li Qiang chaired a high-level economic symposium with experts and entrepreneurs, signaling targeted stimulus for consumption and technology.
—5 min read
BusinessEconomy
Shein Gets Chinese Regulatory Approval for Hong Kong IPO
Chinese fast-fashion giant Shein secures CSRC approval for its Hong Kong IPO after failed attempts in New York and London, targeting $40-50 billion.
—4 min read
Economy
Shenzhen Office Leasing Activity Hits 6-Year High
Shenzhen office leasing transactions hit a six-year high in H1 2026, driven by AI and semiconductor firms. Vacancy fell for three straight quarters.
—5 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
China Launches New Rural Road Upgrades for Rural Economy
China launches a new round of rural road upgrades, targeting 300,000 km of new roads by 2027 to boost rural economies through improved infrastructure.
—4 min read
Economy
China's H1 Foreign Trade Breaks 25 Trillion Yuan, Up 16.9%
China's H1 2026 foreign trade reached 25.47 trillion yuan, a historic first above 25 trillion, with 16.9% growth led by high-tech exports and BRI markets.
—5 min read
EnergyEconomy
Belgium's Gas Reserves at 25% as Winter Looms
Belgium's gas storage is only 25% full amid the Iran war and Strait of Hormuz blockade, raising energy security concerns ahead of winter.
—4 min read
SocietyEconomy
Belgium Unemployment Reform: 40.8% Turn to Social Welfare
New data shows 40.8% of Belgians excluded from unemployment benefits turn to CPAS welfare centers, exceeding government projections.
—5 min read
EconomyLifestyle
Belgium Motorcycle Sales Hit 15-Year High, 125cc Models Lead
Belgian motorcycle sales hit a 15-year high with 16,368 new registrations in H1 2026. Light 125cc models surge, driven by accessible licensing rules.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Flexi-Jobs Row Sparks Coalition Crisis in Belgium
Belgian Budget Minister Van Peteghem warns flexi-jobs undermine social security, just weeks after his government expanded the system to all sectors.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Inflation Cools to 3.5% as Warsh Vows to Defeat Price Surge
June CPI cools to 3.5% as Fed Chair Warsh vows regime change. Iran war threatens new price spikes, creating a delicate balancing act for policymakers.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
Big Banks Smash Earnings Records as Tectonic Risks Loom
JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citigroup report record Q2 earnings as trading surges, but executives warn of looming risks.
—5 min read
EconomyCulture
Belgian Motorcycle Sales Hit 15-Year High; Dhont Opens Fest
Belgian motorcycle sales hit highest level since 2011 as 125cc models surge, while Lukas Dhont's 'Coward' opens Film Fest Gent 2026.
—4 min read
Environment and EnergyEconomy
Belgium's Gas Reserves at 25% as Europe Faces Tense Winter
Belgium's gas reserves are only 25% full, raising energy security concerns. With EU storage at 49%, Europe faces a challenging winter ahead.
—6 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Grain Harvest Breaks 3000 Billion Jin Barrier
China's 2026 summer grain output reaches a record 3014.9 billion jin, surpassing 3000 billion for the first time despite extreme weather.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China's AI Agents Cross the Chasm From Tech to Profit
AI agents in China are moving from technical feasibility to commercial profitability, with real-world deployment across manufacturing and government.
—6 min read
EnergyEconomy
China Unveils $690B Plan for Next-Gen Smart Power Grid
China details plans for a next-gen smart power grid with over 5 trillion yuan in investment, aiming to build a resilient renewable-powered network by 2030.
—5 min read
Economy
China's Economy Shows Steady Improvement in H1 2026
High-frequency data from China's NDRC shows steady H1 2026 economic improvement, with AI investment surging 118.4% and consumption trends stabilizing.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Reusable Rockets Close Commercial Loop for China Space Firms
China's first controlled rocket recovery marks a turning point as 15+ space companies rush to IPO on the STAR Market, signaling industry maturation.
—5 min read
ConsumerEconomy
Shared Bike Prices Soar in China, Raising Affordability Fear
China's shared bike prices have surged six-fold in a decade, with unlock fees approaching 2 yuan. An investigation reveals the strategy behind the hikes.
—4 min read
BusinessEconomy
VW to Cut 1 Million Vehicle Capacity Amid China Threat
Volkswagen plans to cut 1 million vehicles of capacity and slash its model lineup by up to 50% as Chinese rivals erode market share in China and Europe.
—5 min read
CultureEconomy
China's Live Performance Boom Fuels Summer Consumer Spending
China's live performance market is booming this summer, with concerts and cultural events driving consumer spending and fueling the ticket stub economy.
—5 min read
HealthcareEconomy
China's Drug Approvals Surpass 2025 Total in H1 2026
China approved 11 domestically developed new-target drugs in H1 2026, exceeding 2025's total, with world-first therapies and record out-licensing deals.
—4 min read
TransportationEconomy
China Railway Sets H1 Record: 2.348 Billion Passenger Trips
China's railway system handled 2.348 billion passenger trips in H1 2026, a 5% year-on-year increase, setting a new record for the period.
—4 min read
FinanceEconomy
China Unveils First Systematic Rules for Credit Blacklist
China's NFRA issues new rules for serious breach credit blacklist management, establishing a closed-loop financial credit supervision system.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium's Flexi-Job System 'Spiraling Out of Control'
Belgian Budget Minister Van Peteghem warns flexi-jobs are undermining social security as record numbers and an IMF debt warning fuel reform debate.
—4 min read
TransportEconomy
Belgium Road Vignette 2027: Prices and European Comparison
Belgium introduces a digital road vignette from May 2027. Annual prices range from €90 to €125. Compare with European vignette systems.
—4 min read
International PoliticsEconomy
U.S. and Iran Edge Toward War as Trump Renews Blockade
Trump reinstates the U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports in the Strait of Hormuz, demanding a 20% cargo fee, as strikes escalate and oil prices surge.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Landmark Housing Bill Becomes Law Without Trump's Signature
The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act, the largest housing bill in decades, became law automatically after Trump refused to sign it over a voter ID dispute.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Trump Eyes Biggest Retirement Overhaul Since 1935
President Trump is studying Australia's mandatory retirement system for a potential US overhaul. The proposal could reshape how Americans save.
—5 min read
Economy
Americans Rely on Credit Cards for Groceries as Costs Surge
Urban Institute study finds 1 in 4 working-age Americans using credit cards for groceries can't pay their bills, as food prices rise 32% over five years.
—5 min read
Economy
Business Creation Booms as Workers Become Their Own Boss
A record 3.1 million Americans filed to start businesses in H1 2026, driven by layoff anxiety, AI fears, and the desire for autonomy.
—5 min read
EconomyPersonal Finance
Gen Z Breaks Salary Taboo by Posting Pay Online
A viral trend sees young Americans posting salaries online as part of 'loud budgeting.' Bank of America finds 42% of Gen Z now openly discuss finances.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
200+ Economists Warn AI Threatens Jobs and Economy
Over 200 economists, including 16 Nobel laureates, warn AI could transform the economy faster than the Industrial Revolution as AI spending raises prices.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
US Regulators Warn Banks on Lending to Those in US Illegally
Federal banking regulators warned that lending to immigrants in the US illegally poses elevated credit risk amid Trump's immigration crackdown.
—5 min read
EnvironmentEconomy
EV Battery Recycling Faces an Economic Crisis, Report Finds
New report reveals EV battery recycling is often unprofitable as LFP batteries cost hundreds to recycle. Colorado passes landmark producer law.
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
Monopoly Maker's U.S. Experiment Exposes Tariff Reality
A Monopoly importer tried making games in the U.S. to avoid tariffs. The result: no dice makers, double costs, and a lesson in reshoring challenges.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
China's Power Load Hits Record 1.518 Billion Kilowatts
China's power load hit a record 1.518 billion kilowatts on July 10, driven by industrial growth, EV and data center demand, and extreme heat.
—4 min read
EconomyAgriculture
China's Summer Grain Harvest Tops 300 Billion Jin
China's summer grain harvest surpasses 300 billion jin for the first time, driven by new agricultural technologies and improved seed varieties.
—4 min read
EconomyAutomotive
Volkswagen Plans 1 Million Capacity Cut in China, Europe
Volkswagen plans to cut 1 million vehicles of capacity in China and Europe and halve its lineup, as the board rejects management's restructuring plan.
—5 min read
EconomyBusiness
Sinopec and China Aviation Oil Complete Landmark Merger
Sinopec completes restructuring of China Aviation Oil, creating an integrated aviation fuel giant to boost energy security and SAF development.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
China's Ports Top Global Cargo and Container Rankings
China's ports handled 18.3 billion tonnes of cargo and 354 million TEUs in 2025, retaining the world's top ranking, the Ministry of Transport announced.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Panda Bond Issuance Surpasses 160 Billion Yuan in H1 2026
Panda bond issuance in China exceeded 160 billion yuan in H1 2026, up 60% YoY, driven by low rates and RMB internationalization.
—6 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Targets €10 Billion in Budget Savings by Mid-October
Belgian PM Bart De Wever's government sets €10 billion budget savings target by mid-October, exceeding the €7.7 billion EU minimum.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Fuel Prices Surge in Belgium as Refining Costs Climb
Belgian fuel prices rise sharply as diesel hits EUR 2.10/litre. Surging refining margins and geopolitical tensions are driving the increase.
—5 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Iconic Pink Farm in Knokke Listed for Sale at €18.75 Million
The iconic Roze Hoeve in Knokke-Zoute, one of Belgium's most recognizable estates, hits the market for €18.75 million in a rare public sale.
—4 min read
US PoliticsEconomy
Landmark Housing Bill Becomes Law Without Trump's Signature
The largest housing affordability bill in decades became law automatically after President Trump refused to sign it in protest over a voting bill.
—6 min read
EconomyEnergy
China Hits Triple Economic Milestones: Grain, Power, Marine
China reports record summer grain harvest, all-time high power load of 1.518 billion kW, and marine economy surpassing 11 trillion yuan.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
China Bans Helium Exports as Global Supply Crunch Tightens
China imposes an immediate ban on helium exports amid a global supply crunch, threatening semiconductor and medical industries worldwide.
—4 min read
Business & IndustryEconomy
VW to Cut 1 Million Vehicle Capacity in China and Europe
VW plans to cut 1 million vehicles of capacity, halve its model lineup, and target 9 million annual production amid fierce Chinese competition.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
China's Power Load Hits Record 1.518 Billion Kilowatts
China's national power load reaches a historic high of 1.518 billion kilowatts, driven by industrial growth, service sector expansion and summer heatwaves.
—4 min read
EconomyMarine
China's Marine Economy Surpasses 11 Trillion Yuan
China's marine economy exceeded 11 trillion yuan in 2025, the 2026 Maritime Day report shows, highlighting global leadership in shipping and shipbuilding.
—4 min read
Government & PolicyEconomy
Li Qiang Chairs State Council on Flood Relief, Digital China
Premier Li Qiang chairs State Council meeting on flood relief, Digital China, logistics, emerging industries, and a new national fitness plan.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Chinese AI Products Flood Mainstream Consumer Market
Chinese AI products from smart camping carts to companion robots enter everyday life, backed by government policy and a booming digital economy.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Belgium Energy Shift: Cheaper Power, Costlier Gas From 2028
Flanders cuts electricity taxes and raises gas levies from 2028 to push green heating. Belgian fuel prices surge as refining margins hit highs.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Housing Bill Becomes Law After Trump Refuses to Sign
The 21st Century ROAD to Housing Act became law automatically at midnight after President Trump refused to sign it, marking a rare constitutional maneuver.
—6 min read
Environment & ClimateEconomy
China Unveils 15th Five-Year Carbon Peak Action Plan
China releases its 15th Five-Year Carbon Peak Action Plan with binding targets including 17% CO2 reduction per GDP unit and 25% non-fossil energy by 2030.
—6 min read
AutomotiveEconomy
China's NEV Sales Surpass 7.4 Million Units in H1 2026
China's NEV production and sales exceeded 7.4 million units in H1 2026, with June market share reaching 58.5%. Exports surged 120% YoY.
—4 min read
Economy
China's June Core CPI Rises Moderately as AI Demand Surges
China's June CPI rose 1.0% YoY as core inflation held steady, while AI-driven manufacturing sectors saw strong demand growth.
—4 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Grain Output Tops 300 Billion Jin
China's summer grain output reached 301.49 billion jin, surpassing 300 billion jin for the first time in a record harvest bolstering food security.
—4 min read
TravelEconomy
China Hits Record 369 Million Border Crossings in H1 2026
China recorded 369 million entry-exit trips in H1 2026, a new all-time high driven by visa-free policies and surging foreign arrivals.
—3 min read
AutomotiveEconomy
China's Auto Exports Shift from Scale to Value-Driven Growth
China's auto exports hit 5.1M vehicles in H1 2026 as the industry shifts from volume-driven to value-driven growth, led by NEV technology.
—5 min read
Real EstateEconomy
China's Rental Market Surges as Talent Influx Drives Demand
China's rental housing market heats up as record 12.7M graduates and tech talent influx drive demand in Shenzhen and other first-tier cities.
—5 min read
EconomyChina
SASAC Launches 'Scene Vientiane' for SOE Innovation
SASAC launches 'Scene Vientiane' for central SOEs, releasing ten landmark scenarios to drive innovation through open collaboration.
—4 min read
Consumer ProtectionEconomy
Belgium Bans Klarna and BNPL Services for Minors
Belgium bans Klarna and buy now, pay later apps for minors, closing a regulatory loophole and transposing the EU Consumer Credit Directive II.
—4 min read
TransportationEconomy
Airline Consolidation Rules the Skies: Has It Helped Flyers?
With four airlines controlling 75% of U.S. air travel and Spirit Airlines gone, an NPR analysis examines whether consolidation helped or hurt flyers.
—6 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump Lets Housing Bill Become Law in Voter ID Protest
Trump let a bipartisan housing bill become law without his signature, protesting the Senate's failure to pass the SAVE America Act voter ID bill.
—4 min read
EconomyConsumer
Gas Prices Are Swinging: How to Budget for Volatility
Gas prices are swinging wildly due to the Iran war. Experts share budgeting strategies to manage fuel cost volatility and protect your wallet.
—6 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China Unveils Major Policy Package: Drug List, Carbon Plan
China announces sweeping domestic policy measures including a new essential drug list, carbon peak plan, flood prevention, and anti-fraud campaign.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Economy Resilient with Record Grain Harvest, NEV Surge
China's June core CPI rises moderately, summer grain output exceeds 300 billion jin for the first time, and NEV sales surpass 7.4 million units in H1 2026.
—5 min read
AI & TechnologyEconomy
China's AI Boom: One-Person Firms, Zhipu, Memory, GPT-Live
China's AI sector surges: one-person companies rise, Zhipu shares jump 13%, memory chip makers boom, and OpenAI launches GPT-Live voice model.
—6 min read
Auto IndustryEconomy
China Auto Paradox: Sales Slump, Export Surge, New Standards
China's auto industry faces a paradox: domestic passenger car sales slump 20% while exports surge 63% and China co-leads global driving standards.
—4 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Chinese Developers Chase Premium Land as Market Slumps
State-owned developers pay steep premiums for prime land in top-tier Chinese cities, even as the national property market remains in a slump.
—5 min read
TourismEconomy
China Launches 2026 Summer Tourism Season with $62M Vouchers
China launches the 2026 Summer Tourism Season in Qinghai, featuring over 30,000 events and 450 million yuan in consumer vouchers.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
Belgian Economy: Fuel Soars, E-Bikes, F-35 3D Printing
Geopolitical tensions reshape Belgium's economy: diesel above €2, speed pedelec sales surge, and a 10-person firm lands an F-35 3D-printing contract.
—4 min read
Regional DevelopmentEconomy
Liaoning Slashes Development Zones by Half in Reform Push
Liaoning Province has merged or abolished 49 development zones in a sweeping reform to cut redundancies and refocus on economic growth.
—4 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Belgian Housing in Flux: Knokke Drops, National Trends Shift
Belgium's housing market sees shifts as Knokke buyers move to Nieuwpoort amid summer unrest, while national prices dip slightly with a logical explanation.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
IMF Raises China 2026 Growth Forecast to 4.6%
IMF upgrades China's 2026 growth forecast to 4.6% while cutting global outlook. PBOC maintains loose policy, CPI rises 1.0% amid retail reforms.
—5 min read
EconomyEurope
Belgium Fuel Prices Surge as Diesel Tops €2 Per Liter Again
Belgian diesel prices exceed €2 per liter again, gasoline also rises amid Middle East tensions and Strait of Hormuz disruptions.
—5 min read
EconomyMobility
Speed Pedelec Sales Surge in Belgium as Military Join Trend
Speed pedelec registrations in Belgium jump 10% in first half of 2026, driven by military personnel now eligible for bike leasing programs.
—3 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Belgian Housing Prices Dip: What Homebuyers Need to Know
Belgian housing prices fell nearly 1% in Q2 2026. Experts explain the demographic shift behind the decline and what it means for buyers and sellers.
—4 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Knokke Housing Drops as Unrest Pushes Buyers to Nieuwpoort
Summer unrest in Knokke is reshaping the Belgian coastal real estate market, with buyers fleeing to Nieuwpoort and driving prices up 10.2%.
—4 min read
Economy
China's Economy Shows Resilience as H1 Data Signals Recovery
China's H1 2026 data signals economic recovery: logistics index at 50.6%, forex reserves at $3.4 trillion, gold reserves rise, water efficiency improves.
—5 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China's AI Surge: Meituan Open-Sources 1.6T Model
China's AI sector accelerates: Meituan open-sources a 1.6T-parameter model on domestic chips, WAIC 2026 set for July 17, robot output to top 100K.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China Proposes E-Commerce Law Overhaul for Gig Workers
China unveils major e-commerce law revision with gig worker protections, revenue-based fines up to 5%, and new trade countermeasures.
—5 min read
ObituaryEconomy
Gao Shanwen, Outspoken Chinese Economist, Dies at 55
Gao Shanwen, influential Chinese economist known for candid views and challenging official GDP data, has died of T-cell lymphoma at age 55.
—4 min read
EconomyTourism
China Launches Summer Tourism Season with $62M in Vouchers
China launches Summer Tourism Season, distributing over 450 million yuan in vouchers across 30,000 events to boost domestic travel.
—4 min read
PolicyEconomy
China Unveils Tourism Powerhouse Plan for 2030
China issues its first national-level tourism powerhouse plan, targeting 190M inbound arrivals and $150B in spending by 2030.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Wang Yi Concludes Nordic Tour with Trade and Green Deals
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi concluded a six-day Nordic visit, securing agreements on trade, green transition, and AI governance.
—5 min read
International RelationsEconomy
EU Protectionist Policies May Backfire, Chinese Media Warns
A People's Daily analysis warns the EU's Industrial Accelerator Act could backfire, harming European competitiveness through protectionist measures.
—5 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
Meituan Open-Sources 1.6T-Parameter AI on Chinese Chips
Meituan open-sources LongCat-2.0, a 1.6-trillion-parameter AI model trained on domestic Chinese chips, marking a milestone in AI self-sufficiency.
—6 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China's Humanoid Robot Output to Top 100,000 Units in 2026
China's MIIT announces humanoid robot output expected to exceed 100,000 units in 2026, a 5x leap from 2025 cementing its global dominance in embodied AI.
—5 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
WAIC 2026 Showcases China's AI Surge in Shanghai July 17-20
China's AI industry, now exceeding 1.2 trillion yuan, takes center stage at WAIC 2026 in Shanghai with record space and 300+ global product debuts.
—5 min read
Economy
China's H1 Economy: Four Key Indicators Signal Recovery
China's H1 2026 economic data reveals resilience through four key indicators: power capacity, AI growth, consumer trade-ins, and Africa trade.
—4 min read
Economy
China Logistics Index Hits 50.6% in June, Signaling Recovery
China's logistics index rose to 50.6% in June, a second straight month of expansion signaling continued economic recovery.
—4 min read
Economy
China's Forex Reserves Hold Steady at $3.416 Trillion
China's foreign exchange reserves stood at $3.4163 trillion at end of June, down 0.75% from May due to US dollar strength, SAFE data shows.
—4 min read
Economy
China Ramps Up Gold Purchases, Reserves at 75.4M Ounces
China's central bank added 480,000 ounces of gold in June, extending its buying streak to 20 months as reserves hit 75.4 million ounces.
—4 min read
EconomyLaw
China Revises Price Law to Curb Involution-Style Competition
China revises its Price Law to curb involution-style competition, with record fines on e-commerce platforms and strengthened antitrust enforcement.
—4 min read
SocietyEconomy
Pension Reform Shock: MyPension Tool Shows Delayed Pensions
Belgians in their sixties are discovering their retirement dates pushed back by months or years as MyPension shows the real pension reform impact.
—4 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China's AGIBOT Hits 15,000 Humanoid Robots, New Era Begins
AGIBOT produces its 15,000th embodied robot, the Jiling G2, setting a global record and signaling a shift to large-scale commercial deployment.
—5 min read
EconomyEnvironment
China's Water Efficiency Rises 4.5% in Green Transition
China's water consumption per 10,000 yuan GDP fell 4.5% in 2025, signaling a shift toward sustainable, high-quality economic development.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Magnette Warns of Belgian Budget Black Hole Alternative
PS leader Paul Magnette denounces Belgium's soaring deficit as a 'gigantic budgetary black hole' and proposes a €15B alternative to austerity.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Antwerp Airport at a Crossroads After TUI's Departure
TUI Fly's exit from Antwerp Airport by spring 2027 leaves the airport's future uncertain, sparking debate over closure, subsidies, and electric aviation.
—5 min read
EconomyBusiness
AB InBev Strike in Leuven Ends as Deal Reached on Workload
A six-day strike at AB InBev's Leuven distribution center ends after unions and management agree on new hires, a heat plan, and a review of a dismissal.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Belgian Startup e-peas Raises $22M for Battery-Free Devices
Belgian startup e-peas raises USD 22 million to scale energy-harvesting chips that eliminate batteries in remote controls, keyboards, and IoT sensors.
—4 min read
LifestyleEconomy
Belgian Summer 2026: Budgets, Destinations and Travel Trends
72% of Belgians plan summer holidays in 2026 with a €2,545 average budget. France tops destinations, domestic tourism rises, social divide persists.
—4 min read
U.S. HealthEconomy
Obamacare Premiums Surge: Insurers Propose 14% Hike for 2027
ACA Marketplace insurers propose median 14% premium hike for 2027, following 20% surge. Middle-income Americans face steepest costs as subsidies expire.
—4 min read
EconomyEnvironment
China Targets 8 Trillion Yuan for Circular Economy by 2030
China targets 8 trillion yuan for resource recycling by 2030 under its 15th Five-Year Plan, focusing on waste reduction and green transformation.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
70 A-Share Firms Pre-Announce H1 Results, 87% Report Gains
Nearly 90% of 70 early-reporting A-share firms forecast H1 2026 profit growth, driven by AI supply chains. Luxshare Precision leads with 18-22% net profit.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
GBA Smart Manufacturing: China's New Productive Force
The Greater Bay Area transforms from world factory to innovation hub, using AI, robotics, and digital twins to drive China's new productive forces.
—6 min read
EconomyTrade
China Opens 92 New International Air Cargo Routes in H1 2026
China opened 92 new international air cargo routes in H1 2026, adding over 210 weekly flights to strengthen global trade connectivity.
—4 min read
EconomyReal Estate
China Property Market Stabilizes on Policy Support Effect
China's property market shows early stabilization signals as core cities lead recovery. Policy support boosts transactions and cuts inventory.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Must Find €7.7 Billion to Fix Budget Deficit
Belgian Finance Minister Van Peteghem says €7.7 billion is the minimum needed to meet EU fiscal rules by 2029, with the challenge growing after 2031.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
World Bank Maintains 2026 China Growth Forecast at 4.4%
The World Bank keeps China's 2026 GDP growth forecast at 4.4%, citing high-tech investment and export resilience amid property sector headwinds.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
EU Parliament Divided Over Future of European Auto Industry
The European Parliament is split on saving the EU auto industry: right-wing factions oppose the EV mandate while left-wing parties push for faster action.
—5 min read
EconomyBusiness
Gheysens Cashes In €260M from Sale of Warsaw Skyscraper
Belgian tycoon Paul Gheysens sells Warsaw's The Bridge skyscraper to Eastnine for €260M, providing critical liquidity for his struggling Ghelamco Group.
—5 min read
TransportEconomy
TUI to Halt All Flights from Antwerp Airport by Spring 2027
TUI Fly will cease all operations at Antwerp Airport by spring 2027, dealing a major blow to the airport's viability and subsidy debate.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
Monizze Pay: Belgian Alternative to US Mobile Payment Giants
Belgian fintech Monizze launches Monizze Pay, a homegrown mobile payment solution bypassing Apple Pay and Google Pay for meal vouchers and eco-vouchers.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump Team Eyes Australia-Style Retirement Plan for Workers
Trump administration explores Australia-style retirement system for American workers, modeled on the country's mandatory superannuation program.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Trump's Foreign Investment Boom Hits Economic Headwinds
Trump promised a foreign investment boom driven by tariff threats. Now a strong dollar, high rates, and global uncertainty push capital away.
—4 min read
Economy
US Trade Deficit Widens Sharply in May on Record Imports
The US trade deficit jumped 42.2% to $77.6 billion in May as goods imports hit a record $317 billion, driven by AI semiconductors and crude oil.
—5 min read
Economy
Car Payment Hits Record $777 as Affordability Worsens
The average new car payment hit a record $777 in Q2 2026 as rising prices, high interest rates, and longer loan terms squeeze consumers.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Trump Claims Credit for Walmart Price Cuts, Company Silent
President Trump says Walmart cut prices at his administration's request, but the retailer's official statement makes no mention of the White House.
—5 min read
BusinessEconomy
AI Stocks Resume Decline, Dragging Global Markets Lower
AI stocks tumbled Tuesday as Samsung's record earnings triggered profit-taking, dragging global markets lower and raising valuation concerns.
—4 min read
FinanceEconomy
China's A-Share Market Overhauls Trading Rules in Big Reform
China's three major stock exchanges implement trading rule reforms, expanding after-hours trading, adjusting ST stock limits, and more.
—5 min read
EconomyEnvironment
China Targets 8 Trillion Yuan Circular Economy by 2030
China's new Circular Economy 15th Five-Year Plan targets 8 trillion yuan in recycling output by 2030, addressing battery, wind and solar waste.
—5 min read
EconomyTransportation
China's Railway Freight Hits 2.015 Billion Tons in H1 2026
China's railway freight reached 2.015 billion tons in H1 2026, up 1.8% YoY. Coal, grain, and China-Europe rail express all posted strong gains.
—4 min read
EconomyLogistics
China's Express Delivery Hits 100 Billion Parcels in 2026
China's express delivery industry hits 100 billion parcels by June 30, nine days earlier than last year, signaling robust consumer demand.
—4 min read
EconomyConsumer
Summer Consumption Surges Across China as Cool Economy Booms
China's summer consumption surges with booming tourism, Guangdong's $120M dining vouchers, and record travel deals as the cool economy drives demand.
—4 min read
EntertainmentEconomy
China Summer Box Office Hits 2 Billion Yuan, Cinemas Revamp
China's summer box office tops 2 billion yuan as annual total exceeds 17.7 billion. New policies aim to transform cinemas into diversified cultural hubs.
—3 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Zhang Guoqing: Empower Industry, Create Jobs in Xinjiang
Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing calls on central SOEs to prioritize industrial empowerment and employment in Xinjiang during a July 2-5 inspection.
—4 min read
EconomyLegislation
China Revises E-Commerce Law with Landmark Proportional Fine
China unveils draft E-Commerce Law amendments with proportional fines of up to 5% of annual turnover for major platform violations.
—5 min read
Consumer ProtectionEconomy
China Consumer Association Warns on Fitness Prepayment Risks
China Consumer Association issues fitness prepayment warning with 'Three Checks, Two Don'ts' guideline and trust-based fund supervision model.
—5 min read
Energy & EnvironmentEconomy
China Targets 8 Trillion Yuan in Circular Economy Plan
China's new circular economy plan targets 8 trillion yuan in recycling output by 2030, addressing EV battery and renewable energy waste.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China's Services Trade Grows 6% in First Five Months of 2026
China's services trade grew 6% year-on-year to 3.1 trillion yuan in Jan-May 2026, led by knowledge-intensive services and travel exports.
—5 min read
Society & CultureEconomy
Sichuan Hotel Price Hikes During Exam Spark Regulatory Row
A Sichuan hotel raised prices during civil service exams. Regulators say they can't cap prices, reigniting debate on price gouging in China.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
China's Robot Exports Surge: 10.38 Million Units Shipped
China exported 10.38 million robots worth 19.99 billion yuan in early 2026, led by cleaning robots, signaling a shift in high-end manufacturing.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
China's 'Six Networks' Plan: A $960B Infrastructure Vision
China is investing over 7 trillion yuan in 'Six Networks'—a massive infrastructure plan spanning water, power, computing, and logistics.
—6 min read
EconomyIndustry
China Reshapes Green Industrial Policy in Coordinated Blitz
China rolls back NEV tax breaks, sets solar efficiency standards, targets 8 trillion yuan recycling, and opens lithium futures to foreign traders.
—4 min read
Society & CultureEconomy
China: Teachers, Blade Nets, Tax Refunds, ACs, Travel
Volunteer teachers for soldiers' children, Laoshan blade net row, new tax refund point, Chinese AC boom in Europe, and summer travel surge.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
China Solar Efficiency Standards Target Overcapacity
China issues mandatory solar efficiency standards effective Jan 2027, targeting overcapacity that has caused 50B yuan in industry losses.
—5 min read
EconomyIndustry
China Opens Lithium Futures Market to Foreign Traders
China opens lithium carbonate futures to overseas traders for the first time, aiming to boost pricing power over the critical battery metal.
—5 min read
Policy & RegulationEconomy
China Unveils Reforms in E-Commerce, Securities, Packaging
China releases E-Commerce Law draft amendments, proposes securities refinancing reforms, and enforces new green packaging standards for express delivery.
—6 min read
EconomyIndustry
China Ends NEV Tax Breaks as Electric Vehicle Sales Surge
China ends vehicle tax exemptions for plug-in hybrids and electric commercial vehicles from 2027, signaling NEV industry maturity.
—6 min read
Diplomacy & Foreign RelationsEconomy
Shanghai, New York Forge Financial Ties at Bloomberg Forum
Financial leaders from Shanghai and New York met at Bloomberg HQ to discuss investing in China, AI-driven growth, and cross-border cooperation.
—5 min read
Policy & RegulationEconomy
China Securities Regulator Unveils Refinancing Rule Overhaul
China's CSRC proposes sweeping refinancing reforms including shelf registration, expanded small-and-fast programs, and tighter convertible bond oversight.
—4 min read
Society & CultureEconomy
Tax Refund Service Opens at Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge
A new tax refund service point at the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, combined with nationwide reforms, makes claiming tax refunds faster for travelers.
—5 min read
EconomySociety & Culture
Chinese Mobile ACs Surge in Europe Amid Trade Tensions
Chinese mobile ACs sell out across Europe as a record heatwave drives demand, challenging EU trade narratives and exposing Europe's cooling gap.
—5 min read
Society & CultureEconomy
China's Summer Travel Season Opens with Record Rail Numbers
China's summer railway travel season begins with 38 million passengers in three days. Railway projects 1.01 billion travelers over 62-day period.
—4 min read
EconomyMedia
IPM-Rossel Merger Approved: Unions Warn of Media Job Losses
Belgian regulator approves IPM-Rossel merger creating a 94% share of French-language print press. Unions fear a 'social bloodbath' as jobs are threatened.
—4 min read
BelgiumEconomy
Belgian Watchdog Warns of Fake Wine and Real Estate Scams
Belgium's FSMA warns consumers about five companies offering fraudulent alternative investments in wine, energy, and real estate with guaranteed returns.
—4 min read
EconomyBelgium
Belgian Supermarket Inflation Turns Negative for First Time
Supermarket inflation in Belgium has turned negative for the first time, with prices falling 0.41% in June. Test Achats reports relief for shoppers.
—4 min read
EconomyPersonal Finance
KBC Raises Savings Rate to 3.15%, Topping Belgian Market
KBC increases savings account interest to 3.15 percent, becoming market leader in Belgium. But the offer comes with conditions and limitations.
—4 min read
Economy
US Hiring Slows Sharply in June as Consumer Gloom Persists
U.S. employers added just 57,000 jobs in June, far below expectations, as consumer confidence remains historically low amid war-induced inflation.
—4 min read
Social PolicyEconomy
China Expands Injury Insurance to 30 Million Gig Workers
China expands occupational injury insurance nationwide, covering 30 million gig economy workers including ride-hailing drivers and delivery riders.
—5 min read
EconomyChina
China Extends Employment Support Policies to Stabilize Jobs
China extends unemployment insurance refunds, hiring subsidies, and skills training benefits through 2026 to stabilize the job market.
—4 min read
SocietyEconomy
China Adds 12 New Occupations in Digital and Green Sectors
China's MOHRSS proposes 12 new occupations spanning AI, green energy, digital twins, and traditional crafts, reflecting labor market evolution.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
China's Knowledge-Intensive Service Exports Up 12.2%
China's knowledge-intensive service exports grew 12.2% in Jan-May 2026, reaching 6,677.5 billion yuan, as trade structure shifts to higher-value sectors.
—4 min read
Infrastructure & TransportEconomy
Hangzhou-Taizhou High-Speed Railway Trial Run Begins
The Wenzhou-Yuhuan section of the Hangzhou-Taizhou HSR begins trial operations, marking the final step before the line opens by end of July 2026.
—4 min read
SocialEconomy
Brussels CPAS Job Seeker Registrations Nearly Double
Brussels CPAS job seekers surged 83.5% to 34,137 as federal unemployment benefit time-limiting shifts costs to municipal welfare systems.
—5 min read
EconomySocial
Nearly 250,000 Belgians Struggle to Repay Consumer Loans
Nearly 250,000 Belgians are in arrears on consumer loans as defaults hit 110,000 in 2025, a 16% rise. Rising costs and BNPL apps fuel the crisis.
—5 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Grain Procurement Reaches Peak Season
China's summer grain procurement peaks as authorities deploy digital platforms, transparent pricing, and same-day payment to help farmers sell efficiently.
—4 min read
Consumer ProtectionEconomy
Belgium Bans Fake Energy Discounts in Consumer Crackdown
Belgian parliament unanimously approves ban on misleading energy discounts targeting deceptive pricing that costs households up to €700 yearly.
—5 min read
FinanceEconomy
PBOC Trims Bond Purchases to Nine-Month Low in June
PBOC injected just 10 billion yuan via bond operations in June, the smallest in nine months, signaling caution over falling yields amid ample liquidity.
—4 min read
BusinessEconomy
Krëfel Gets €73M Lifeline from Mulliez Family in Rescue Bid
Belgian retailer Krëfel gets €72.8M recapitalization from the Mulliez family, aiming for breakeven in 2026 after years of losses.
—5 min read
BusinessEconomy
Pieter Bourgeois Leaves Alychlo for Koramic CEO Role
Pieter Bourgeois departs Marc Coucke's Alychlo three months after CEO ouster, becoming co-CEO of Koramic Investments with a path to sole leadership.
—4 min read
EconomyHealthcare
New Jersey Charges Companies with Workers on Medicaid
New Jersey becomes first state in years to charge employers whose workers are on Medicaid, aiming to raise $145M. Other states may follow.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Virginia County Urges Power Saving in Data Center Rate Hike
Henrico County, Virginia faces a 25% electricity rate increase driven by surging data center energy demand, forcing budget cuts and conservation pleas.
—4 min read
Economy
China's Departure Tax Refund 2.0 Takes Effect to Boost Trips
China's departure tax refund 2.0 policy takes effect July 1, with random sampling and paperless processing to boost inbound tourism and spending.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
China's Supply Chain Helps Europe Survive Record Heatwave
Europe's record heatwave drives surging demand for AC units. Chinese manufacturers deliver innovative cooling solutions through robust supply chains.
—6 min read
TransportationEconomy
Overnight High-Speed Rail Links Hong Kong to Yiwu
A new overnight high-speed sleeper train now connects Hong Kong to Yiwu, the global small commodities hub, in an evening-departure morning-arrival service.
—4 min read
TransportationEconomy
China Cuts Domestic Flight Fuel Surcharges from July 5
China reduces domestic flight fuel surcharges from July 5, cutting costs by up to 50 yuan per passenger as summer travel season peaks.
—4 min read
UrbanEconomy
China unveils five-year plan to renew idle urban properties
China issues its first dedicated five-year urban renewal plan, targeting idle housing, aging infrastructure, and a shift from expansion to quality.
—6 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Rolls Out New Policies to Boost AI Solo Founders
China rolls out new policies at central and local levels to support AI one-person companies, offering funding, computing resources, and regulatory backing.
—5 min read
EnvironmentEconomy
China enforces mandatory limits on express packaging waste
China's first mandatory national standard restricting excessive express packaging takes effect, limiting layers and tape width to reduce waste.
—4 min read
EnvironmentEconomy
Belgium Granted €15 Billion in Fossil Fuel Subsidies in 2024
Belgium granted nearly €15 billion in fossil fuel subsidies in 2024, sparking criticism from environmental groups over climate commitments.
—5 min read
Economy
Fuel Prices Rise Again in Belgium This Friday
Belgian fuel prices rise again on Friday as SPF Economie announces increases of up to 7.2 cents per liter, adding to cost-of-living pressures.
—4 min read
Weather & SocietyEconomy
AC Installers Overwhelmed as Belgium Heatwave Drives Demand
Belgian AC installers are overwhelmed with over 40 requests daily as a record heatwave drives demand to unprecedented levels, with 6-8 week waits.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Belgian Startups Too Cautious on AI, Deloitte Survey Warns
Deloitte's survey reveals Belgian startups lack the boldness needed to lead the AI revolution, despite a strong ecosystem with eight unicorns.
—4 min read
EconomyEducation
No Degree, €5,921/Month: How One Extra Study Year Paid Off
A Belgian solar panel installer earns €5,921/month without a higher education diploma. One extra year of technical study proved a golden investment.
—4 min read
Cross-StraitEconomy
Taiwan Affairs Office Responds to World-Highest Milk Prices
Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office responds to Taiwan's world-highest milk prices, criticizing DPP for diverting attention with anti-mainland rhetoric.
—4 min read
EconomyUnited States
US Adds Just 57,000 Jobs in June as Hiring Slows Sharply
The US economy added 57,000 jobs in June, well below expectations, as the unemployment rate ticked down to 4.2% and wage growth trailed inflation.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump Accounts Launch July 4, Giving $1,000 to Every Newborn
Trump Accounts launch July 4, giving $1,000 to every newborn. How the program works, who qualifies, and why critics warn it could widen the wealth gap.
—7 min read
TechnologyEconomy
AI Is Reshaping the Economy. Measuring It Is Another Story.
Economists struggle to measure AI's economic impact as massive investment coexists with near-zero measured productivity gains, echoing the Solow Paradox.
—5 min read
TravelEconomy
Record Crowds Push US Aviation System to Its Limits
AAA projects 72.2M travelers for July 4th as TSA screens 18.7M passengers. Controller shortages and aging infrastructure strain US aviation.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Trump Announces Gas Price Cuts Ahead of July 4 Celebration
Trump announces Freedom Fuel Network will cut gas prices at 25 Philadelphia-area stations on July 3, as the administration pressures retailers.
—4 min read
AutomotiveEconomy
China's Toughest EV Safety Standards Reshape NEV Industry
China's new EV safety standards mandate no-fire-no-explosion batteries and physical one-touch power-off, reshaping the NEV industry with higher costs.
—5 min read
EconomyHousing
China Overhauls Housing Provident Fund in Major Reform
China proposes sweeping reforms to its Housing Provident Fund system, expanding withdrawal options to include renovation and property fees.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Targets 2.5 Trillion Yuan Industrial Internet by 2030
Eight Chinese ministries unveil a plan to grow the industrial internet to 2.5 trillion yuan by 2030, with 50,000 5G networks and AI-driven manufacturing.
—5 min read
Energy & EnvironmentEconomy
Belgium Set to Break Electricity Import Record Amid Heatwave
Belgium imported 12.5 TWh of electricity in H1 2026, on track to break the annual record as heatwave drives demand and nuclear phase-out reduces supply.
—5 min read
EconomyTransport
Belgium Truck Toll Hikes Spark Bankruptcy Fears in Transport
Four simultaneous kilometre tax hikes for heavy trucks in Belgium and the Netherlands take effect, sparking warnings of transport company bankruptcies.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium's July 1 Shake-Up: Flexi-Jobs, Package Tax, Fines
Flexi-jobs expand to all sectors, a €3 EU package tax takes effect, traffic fines rise 10%, and NMBS ends onboard ticket sales in Belgium.
—5 min read
Transport & InfrastructureEconomy
Brussels Airport CEO Expects No Strikes This Summer
Brussels Airport CEO Arnaud Feist reassures travelers no spontaneous strikes are expected this summer after agreements at Skeyes and Aviapartner.
—3 min read
EconomyEmployment
Actiris Lists 103 Critical Professions in Brussels
Actiris identifies 103 critical professions in Brussels facing severe labour shortages, guiding job seekers toward high-demand fields.
—4 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
Hong Kong High-Speed Rail Adds Three New Mainland Routes
Hong Kong high-speed rail expands to 113 mainland cities with new direct routes to Guangzhou North, Yiwu, and Fuqing West, boosting travel and trade.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Warsh: Inflation Risks Have Declined in Recent Weeks
Fed Chair Kevin Warsh says inflation risks have declined, citing falling energy prices after the US-Iran deal. He also addressed AI and Fed independence.
—5 min read
Economy
China's Manufacturing PMI Returns to Expansion in June
China's manufacturing PMI rose to 50.3% in June, returning to expansion territory alongside housing market stabilization and mid-year economic progress.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
Google Fined €126M by Paris Court in Landmark Adtech Case
A Paris court orders Google to pay €126 million to Le Figaro, Prisma Media, and others for anti-competitive online advertising practices.
—3 min read
WeatherEconomy
Belgium Counts Heatwave Cost: Excess Deaths, Energy Spikes
Belgium faces the aftermath of a 12-day heatwave: rising at-home deaths, electricity prices nearing 600 euros, and a half-billion-euro economic hit.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Euroclear Sues Russian Central Bank Over Frozen Assets
Euroclear summons Russia's central bank to a Brussels court seeking to block enforcement of a €220 billion Russian judgment over frozen assets.
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
EU Slashes Steel Import Quotas by 47% in New Trade Rules
The EU cuts duty-free steel imports by 47%, doubles tariffs to 50%, and reserves half the quota for FTA partners amid escalating global trade tensions.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium's July 1: Flexi-Jobs, Package Tax, Higher Fines
Belgium introduces sweeping changes on July 1: flexi-jobs expand to all sectors, a new €3 EU package tax takes effect, and traffic fines rise by 10%.
—5 min read
Economy
Belgian Salaried Employment Stagnates as Flexi-Jobs Surge
Economist Philippe Defeyt reports salaried employment in Belgium grew just 0.7% over three years, with flexi-jobs masking a deeper decline in regular jobs.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Flanders Introduces 180 Euro Fee for Work Permits
Flemish Minister Zuhal Demir announces a 180 euro fee per work migration application from 2027, sparking debate between government and employer groups.
—4 min read
EconomyBelgium
Wallonia Launches Job Plus: New Incentive for Employment
Wallonia launches Job Plus on July 1, a simplified hiring incentive replacing four programs. Offers up to €1,200/month for 12-36 months via Forem.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
Hidden Parking App Fees Trigger Belgian Government Probe
Belgium investigates parking apps 4411, EasyPark, Seety, and Yellowbrick over hidden fees and lack of price transparency.
—4 min read
EconomyBusiness
Belgian Champagne Giant Vranken-Pommery on Brink of Collapse
Belgian champagne group Vranken-Pommery faces collapse with €750M in debt, entering exclusive talks with German rival Henkell for a takeover.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgian Parliament to Hold Hearings on Belfius Sale
Belgium's Chamber will hold September hearings on the plan to sell a 20% stake in state-owned bank Belfius and potential Ethias merger.
—4 min read
SocietyEconomy
Paper Tax Return Deadline in Belgium, Online Until July 15
June 30 is the deadline for paper tax returns in Belgium. Online filing via Tax-on-web is open until July 15, with extended deadlines for complex returns.
—4 min read
EconomyBusiness
Belgium's New Richest Family: The Lhoist-Berghmans Dynasty
The Lhoist-Berghmans family is now Belgium's richest after selling their lime division to Martin Marietta for $13.5 billion, with €12.9 billion estimated.
—7 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Les Engagés Proposes Waste Bag Price Hike in Brussels
Brussels' Les Engagés party proposes raising waste bag prices and reintroducing a flat waste tax, sparking political debate with the PTB.
—4 min read
Economy
China's Mid-Year Review Shows Economic Resilience
China's mid-year economic review reveals resilience in agriculture, infrastructure, ecology, and consumer markets as the half-year mark approaches.
—5 min read
EconomyReal Estate
China Housing Market Shows Recovery on Targeted Policies
China's targeted housing policies show results: second-hand listings drop 7% in six months, first-tier city prices rebound for third consecutive month.
—4 min read
Urban DevelopmentEconomy
China Unveils Sweeping Urban Renewal Plan Under 15th Plan
China's first national urban renewal plan targets 1,500 old districts, 115,000 communities, and 770,000 km of pipelines with $970B investment.
—6 min read
EducationEconomy
China Guides 12.7 Million Graduates Through Job Market Shift
As 12.7 million Chinese graduates enter the workforce, Beijing rolls out policies to address structural skills mismatches in an AI-driven economy.
—4 min read
EconomyCulture
China's Cultural Tourism Revolution Reshapes Urban Economies
Chinese cities blend industrial heritage, performing arts, and immersive experiences to create new urban consumption scenarios and drive economic growth.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Heavy AI Adopters Are Hiring More, Not Less, New Study Finds
Ramp Economics Lab research finds companies that invest heavily in AI grow headcount 10%, with entry-level hiring surging 12%, challenging job-loss fears.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump Declares Food Emergency, Suspends Fertilizer Tariffs
President Trump declares a national food supply emergency and suspends tariffs on Moroccan phosphate fertilizer for eight months to help farmers.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Treasury Warns Gas Stations in Price Gouging Probe
Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent warns gas stations to lower prices as crude oil plummets, launching a price gouging probe. Trump demands $2.50/gallon.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump Dismisses Landmark Housing Bill as 'Big Yawn'
President Trump calls bipartisan housing legislation 'a big yawn' as affordability worsens, sparking criticism from both parties ahead of midterms.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
Yiwu Off-Season Orders Signal China's Rising Export Path
Yiwu, China's global small commodities hub, sees a surge in off-season orders, reflecting rising exports and a shift toward value-added trade.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Smart Glasses Near Mass Adoption Inflection Point
China's smart glasses market surges as tech breakthroughs, government subsidies, and AI integration drive mass adoption. Sales grew 106% in H1 2026.
—5 min read
EconomyRegional Development
Foshan Loses Third-City Status, Launches Industrial Overhaul
Foshan lost its position as Guangdong's third-largest city to Dongguan in Q1 2026 and launched an unprecedented industrial restructuring.
—4 min read
Economy
China Logistics Up 5.2% as High-Tech and Green Sectors Rise
China's social logistics total hit 146.6 trillion yuan in Jan-May, up 5.2% YoY, driven by high-tech manufacturing, green energy, and cross-border trade.
—6 min read
Domestic AffairsEconomy
Belgium's July 1: Parcel Tax, Higher Fines, Flexi-Jobs
New regulations hit Belgium July 1: parcel tax on non-EU goods, higher traffic fines, expanded flexi-jobs, pricier service vouchers, and more.
—4 min read
EconomyBusiness
Belgian Inflation Drops to 3.4% in June, Triggers Indexation
Belgian inflation eased to 3.4% in June, crossing the spilindex threshold and triggering wage indexation in September under new centenindex rules.
—4 min read
EconomyCulture
China's Cultural Industry Tops 20 Trillion Yuan in 2025
China's cultural industry revenue exceeded 20 trillion yuan in 2025, up 8.8% YoY, driven by cultural services and new digital business formats.
—4 min read
Domestic AffairsEconomy
Belgian Tax Conciliation Surges 30%, Avoids Court in 6 of 10
Belgian tax conciliation jumped 28% in 2025, over 60% resolved without court. Government plans to transform the service into a binding arbitration body.
—4 min read
EconomyBusiness
EIB Commits Record €3 Billion to Airbus for Innovation
The EIB approved a record €3 billion loan to Airbus, the largest corporate loan in its history, to boost European aerospace innovation.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
South Korea Unveils $1 Trillion AI and Chip Investment Plan
South Korea announces a colossal 455 billion euro investment in AI and semiconductors, positioning itself as a global leader in the technology race.
—6 min read
Energy & EnvironmentEconomy
Europe's Oldest Nuclear Plant Shuts Down Amid Heatwave
A severe heatwave forces shutdown of Europe's oldest nuclear plant and three French reactors, raising questions about climate vulnerability.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
AI Freezes Entry-Level Hiring More Than It Cuts Jobs
Peking University research shows AI is freezing entry-level hiring more than cutting jobs, proposing an AI Employment Compensation Fund for workers.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Huawei and Cambricon Tighten Grip on China's AI Chip Market
Huawei and Cambricon are set to capture nearly 80% of China's AI server chip market in 2026, accelerating Nvidia's retreat amid US export controls.
—4 min read
Energy & EnvironmentEconomy
China Unveils 15th Five-Year Plan for New Energy System
China releases its 15th Five-Year Plan for a new energy system, targeting 20+ trillion yuan investment and peak coal consumption by 2030.
—5 min read
HealthcareEconomy
China Drug Procurement: From Lowest Price to Clinical Value
China's 12th drug procurement round shifts focus to clinical value, with anti-involution measures and a revival mechanism for originator drugs.
—4 min read
Economy
China's Industrial Profits Surge 18.8% on AI Boom
China's industrial profits rose 18.8% in Jan-May 2026, driven by a 103.9% surge in electronics as AI chip demand soared, while downstream sectors lag.
—4 min read
Economy
China Allocates $8.6B in Third Consumer Trade-In Batch
China releases third batch of 62.5 billion yuan in ultra-long special treasury bonds for consumer goods trade-ins, boosting sales past 1 trillion yuan.
—4 min read
EconomyHousing
China Pushes Housing Fund Reform to Unlock Idle Balances
China accelerates Housing Provident Fund reform as idle balances hit 10.9 trillion yuan. New rules expand withdrawals for rent, renovations and more.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
Serbia RMB Forum Advances Yuan Internationalization Push
Serbia hosted an RMB forum in Belgrade focused on expanding bilateral financial cooperation with China and advancing yuan internationalization.
—4 min read
Economy
China Revamps Service Fund to Boost Consumption and AI
China revises service industry fund through 2028, prioritizing new consumption growth and AI adoption in consumer sectors with ~6.9 billion yuan allocated.
—4 min read
Weather & HealthEconomy
Belgium Heatwave: Hospitals Overwhelmed, Economy Loses €500M
A severe heatwave gripping Belgium has overwhelmed hospitals, cost the economy over €500M, and sparked controversy at the European Commission.
—5 min read
EconomySociety
Belgium's July 1 Overhaul: Higher Costs, Flexi-Jobs, Rules
Belgium faces major changes July 1: service vouchers rise to €10.60, flexi-jobs expand, a €3 parcel tax, and stricter train rules.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
Oil Prices Drop Faster Than Expected After Iran Peace Deal
Oil prices fell nearly $10 in ten days after a US-Iran peace deal. Belgian fuel drops sharply but experts warn the fragile agreement may not hold.
—4 min read
EntertainmentEconomy
BTS in Brussels: 120,000 Fans, Hotel Prices Surge 63%
Up to 120,000 BTS fans descend on Brussels for two concerts, sending hotel prices soaring 63% and transforming the city into Europe's K-pop capital.
—4 min read
EducationEconomy
Will New Student Loan Limits Actually Drive Down Tuition?
As new federal student loan caps take effect July 1, economists are divided on whether the limits will reduce tuition or have unintended consequences.
—5 min read
LegalEconomy
China Revises Trademark Law to Curb 'Bad Faith' Marks
China completes first full revision of its Trademark Law since 1983, introducing strict penalties for 'bad faith' trademarks that mislead consumers.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
China Issues Record €5B Euro Sovereign Bonds in Luxembourg
China issues record €5 billion euro sovereign bonds in Luxembourg, attracting €24.8 billion in orders, the largest euro bond sale by an Asian sovereign.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
Summer Davos Closes in Dalian: Scaling Innovation for Growth
The 2026 Summer Davos Forum concluded in Dalian with 1,800 global leaders focused on scaling innovation and shared development amid economic challenges.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium's July 1 Overhaul: Job Seeker Cuts and Higher Fines
From July 1, Belgium tightens unemployment rules for 43,000 job seekers, raises traffic fines 10%, and introduces a mandatory 12-hour alcohol ban.
—5 min read
EconomyIndustry
China Industrial Profits Rise 18.8% in Jan-May 2026
China's industrial profits rose 18.8% in Jan-May 2026, driven by AI chip demand and raw materials. NBS warns of supply-demand imbalance.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Wealth Tax Exposes 'Two Injustices' in Belgian Politics
A Belgian wealth tax proposal targeting the top 5% has ignited a fierce political battle, with experts arguing it reveals two deeper injustices.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgian Politicians Fight to Keep Double Pensions Under Cap
Louis Michel, Karel De Gucht and other top Belgian politicians risk losing double pensions as the government caps EU income.
—5 min read
EntertainmentEconomy
BTS Brings 120,000 Fans to Brussels as Hotel Prices Surge
Up to 120,000 BTS fans are expected in Brussels for two concerts, sending hotel prices soaring 63% and triggering a massive city-wide mobilization.
—4 min read
Economy
Key Inflation Gauge Hits 3-Year High as Mortgage Rates Climb
The Fed's preferred inflation gauge surged to 4.1% in May, a three-year high, as mortgage rates hover near 6.5% and the Iran war drives energy costs.
—5 min read
EconomyInternational Trade
South Korea Platform Law Could Cost US States $525B
South Korea's proposed platform law could cost US states $525B over a decade, with California facing $123B in losses, model estimates.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Apple Raises Prices on iPads, Macs and HomePod Amid AI Surge
Apple hikes prices on Macs, iPads, HomePods, and Apple TV by up to $1,300 due to AI-driven memory chip costs. iPhones could be next in line.
—4 min read
EconomyInnovation
Summer Davos Forum Highlights China's Innovation Drive
At the Summer Davos Forum in Dalian, global leaders and CEOs highlighted China's transformation into an innovation powerhouse amid economic uncertainty.
—5 min read
FinanceEconomy
Evergrande Property Stake Sale Collapses, Shares Dive
Evergrande Property Services stake sale collapses after exclusive talks with state-owned buyer fail, sending shares down and hurting creditor recovery.
—5 min read
EconomyTourism
Chinese Cities Roll Out Summer Tourism Vouchers
Chinese cities launch summer tourism policies with over 80 million yuan in vouchers and subsidies to boost domestic travel during peak season.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
Belgium Nuclear Buyout: State Risks Being Outgunned by Engie
Belgium's nuclear buyout from Engie faces scrutiny as questions mount over ministerial expertise and the state's ability to negotiate a fair deal.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Oil Prices Drop to Pre-Iran War Levels: Relief at the Pump?
Oil prices have fallen to pre-Iran war levels around $73 per barrel. But gas prices remain high and winter risks loom for Belgian consumers.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Piketty: Tax the Rich to Fight Climate Change and Inequality
Thomas Piketty proposes taxing the wealthiest to fund the green transition and reduce inequality, citing a 90% top rate that fueled US prosperity.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgian Chamber Approves 2026 Budget Adjustment
Belgium's Chamber of Representatives approves the 2026 budget adjustment, a technical fix that sets the stage for tough multi-year fiscal negotiations.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Extends Housing Tax Refund for Home Buyers to 2027
China extends personal income tax refund for home buyers trading up to new properties, effective through December 2027.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium to Cap Combined Pensions for Former EU Officials
Belgian government plans to cap combined Belgian and EU pensions at €16,000 per month, targeting former politicians who exceed the legal maximum.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China's NPC Advances Landmark Financial Law in Major Session
China's top legislature concludes its 23rd session, reviewing landmark financial legislation, unified market reforms, and lawyer law amendments.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
Binance to Halt EU Services After Failing MiCA License Bid
Binance will suspend crypto services in Belgium and other EU countries from July 1 after failing to obtain a MiCA license before the regulatory deadline.
—4 min read
TransportEconomy
Letec in Crisis: Heatwave, Breakdown, and Austerity
Walloon bus operator Letec faces heatwave disruptions, customer service collapse, and a new austerity contract demanding 20M in savings.
—4 min read
AgricultureEconomy
Farmers See Little Relief Despite Iran Fertilizer Deal
Urea prices fell 50% after the U.S.-Iran peace deal, but American farmers say on-farm relief remains months away as planting damage is already done.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Newsom Backs National Billionaires Tax, Opposes State One
California Gov. Gavin Newsom calls for a national billionaires tax while opposing a similar state measure, drawing accusations of hypocrisy.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China Daily: Diplomacy, Energy, Tech Lead June 26 News
Xi Jinping meets Cambodian and Bangladeshi leaders; China unveils 20 trillion yuan energy plan; 6G enters system verification; AI reshapes management.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China Daily: Diplomacy, Energy, Tech Lead June 26 News
Xi Jinping meets Cambodian and Bangladeshi leaders; China unveils 20 trillion yuan energy plan; 6G enters system verification; AI reshapes management.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
PBOC Injects 200 Billion Yuan Net via MLF Operation in June
China's PBOC conducted a 500 billion yuan MLF operation on June 25, injecting 200 billion yuan net into the banking system amid shifting liquidity.
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
China-Europe Railway Express: Weaving a New Silk Road
The China-Europe Railway Express surpasses 130,000 trips and $520B in cargo value on its 10th anniversary, weaving a modern Silk Road across Eurasia.
—4 min read
International AffairsEconomy
Who Profits from the Iran War? America's War Business
A Xinhua analysis examines how America's military-industrial complex profits from the Iran conflict while taxpayers and consumers bear the costs.
—6 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgian Socialists Dismiss Odoo CEO Wealth Tax Threat
Belgium's PS dismisses Odoo CEO Fabien Pinckaers' threat to leave over wealth tax, challenges Les Engagés to submit a formal bill amid budget crisis.
—4 min read
EconomyIndustry
Charleroi Threatens Expropriation of Riva Steel Site
Charleroi threatens to expropriate Riva Group's Thy-Marcinelle steelworks to secure the site's future amid a 26-day strike and EU sanctions deadline.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Belgian Gasoline Prices Drop to Lowest Since March
Maximum gasoline prices in Belgium fall to their lowest level since March, offering relief to motorists as Brent crude drops to nearly $76 per barrel.
—4 min read
FinanceEconomy
ING Boosts Savings Rates to 3.10% After ECB Rate Hike
ING Belgium raises savings rates from July 1, with Tempo Sparen reaching 3.10%. The move follows the ECB's first rate hike in nearly three years.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Inflation Hits 3-Year High as Iran War Lifts Energy Prices
The Fed's preferred inflation gauge hit 4.1% in May, a three-year high, driven by energy costs from the Iran war. Core inflation rose to 3.4%.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Tech Giants Join RAISE US to Ease AI Transition for Workers
OpenAI, Amazon, Microsoft, and Anthropic back RAISE US, a $500M bipartisan initiative led by Gina Raimondo to retrain American workers displaced by AI.
—5 min read
Economy
China Economy: Rail Freight Surges, Ad Revenue Tops 2T
China's economy: EU-China rail freight surges 10.8x, advertising revenue tops 2 trillion yuan, real estate stabilizes, and Summer Davos Forum convenes.
—5 min read
Culture & SocietyEconomy
Shanghai Grand Opera House Opens; China Modernizes Grain, EV
Shanghai's fan-shaped Grand Opera House is complete. China upgrades grain storage with AI, warns of rhinovirus, and sees NEV rivalry heat up.
—4 min read
EconomyConsumer
China Allows Same-Day Car Purchase and Registration
China announces same-day car purchase and registration for domestic vehicles, streamlining processes for over 20 million cars annually.
—4 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China's AI Models Lead Global Token Calls for Eighth Week
Chinese AI large models lead global token call volume for eight consecutive weeks, reaching 18.81 trillion weekly tokens, more than triple the US figure.
—5 min read
EconomyGlobal Affairs
2026 Summer Davos: Global Leaders Gather in Dalian, China
The 2026 Summer Davos Forum in Dalian brings together 1,700+ global leaders to discuss innovation, AI, green energy, and economic cooperation.
—5 min read
EconomyRegional Development
China's Autonomous Regions GDP Reaches 8.66 Trillion Yuan
China's five autonomous regions hit 8.66 trillion yuan combined GDP in 2025, a 2.66-fold rise from 2012, as Beijing highlights ethnic region growth.
—4 min read
EconomyAutomotive
Zhejiang Challenges Anhui for China's Top NEV Province Title
Zhejiang challenges Anhui for China's top NEV production title, with the lead changing hands multiple times in 2026 amid fierce regional competition.
—5 min read
EconomyBusiness
China's Ad Revenue Breaks 2 Trillion Yuan for First Time
China's ad industry revenue exceeded 2 trillion yuan in 2025, a 32.6% jump, marking a historic milestone driven by digital growth and policy support.
—5 min read
EconomyReal Estate
China's Property Market Stabilizes in Major Cities
China's real estate market maintains stability as first-tier cities see price rebounds, though divergence persists between major hubs and smaller cities.
—4 min read
InternationalEconomy
Belgian Shipowners Warn of Mine Danger in Hormuz Evacuation
Belgian shipowners urge safety-first approach as UN evacuates 900 ships and 11,000 seafarers from the mined Strait of Hormuz after US-Iran deal.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
De Wever Urges Budget Discipline as Belgium Faces Tightrope
Belgian PM Bart De Wever urges coalition leaders to avoid 'too crazy proposals' as the government races to finalize a federal budget before July 6.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Michigan Candidate Accuses Trump Blocking Bridge for Donor
Mallory McMorrow launches ad accusing Trump of blocking the Gordie Howe Bridge to benefit a billionaire donor who gave $1M to his super PAC.
—5 min read
EconomyHousing
Falling Housing Prices: Good News or Bad? Planet Money Guide
Planet Money analysis explores when declining home values signal a healthy market correction and when they point to economic collapse.
—5 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China's 'AI Plus' Strategy Moves to Large-Scale Deployment
China's 'AI Plus' initiative shifts from pilots to full-scale deployment, with AI core industry exceeding 1.2 trillion yuan and 93% workplace adoption.
—5 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China's AI Boom Rewires Power Grid, Pushes Hubs to Deserts
China's AI boom is reshaping its power grid as data center energy demand surges, driving virtual power plants and pushing hubs to desert regions.
—7 min read
EconomyFinance
Global Issuers Flock to Yuan Bonds at Record Pace
Panda bond issuance surges to 153 billion yuan in 2026 as foreign borrowers lock in cheaper financing, signaling growing global confidence in the yuan.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
China Stamp Tax Surges 88.8% as Market Activity Booms
China's securities stamp tax revenue jumped 88.8% in Jan-May 2026 to 126.2 billion yuan, reflecting surging stock market turnover.
—4 min read
EconomyCulture
Dragon Boat Festival: 124M Trips, 44.5B Yuan Tourism Revenue
China's Dragon Boat Festival saw 124M domestic trips and 44.5B yuan in revenue, with folk culture, sports tourism, and early summer travel driving growth.
—4 min read
Politics & LawEconomy
China Reviews Landmark Financial Law and Procurement Reforms
China's NPC reviews draft Financial Law and Government Procurement Law revision, a major step toward unified financial regulation.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
Nearly 4,000 Foreign Firms Boost Investment in China
Nearly 4,000 foreign-invested enterprises expanded in China during Jan-May 2026, as Commerce Ministry data shows surging confidence in the Chinese market.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium's 'Accordeon Week' Plan Divides Coalition and Unions
Belgium's government is split over the 'accordeon week' proposal for annualized hours. Unions warn of lost overtime pay as employers tout flexibility.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium's Richest Families Hold €85.5 Billion in Luxembourg
Investigation reveals Belgium's 50 wealthiest families manage €85.5 billion through Luxembourg companies, reigniting debate on tax fairness.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Wealth Tax: Coalition Partners Clash Over Fortunes
Les Engagés proposes a 0.3% tax on financial wealth over €500,000, sparking fierce opposition from coalition partner MR amid Belgium's budget crisis.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Belgium Launches €2 Billion Partial Privatization of Belfius
Belgium sells 20% of state-owned Belfius bank for €2 billion, raising questions about fiscal strategy and the bank's future public role.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Pension Bonus and Malus Counters Go Live on mypension.be
Belgian workers can now track pension bonus and malus counters on mypension.be, offering real-time transparency on retirement benefits.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China's AI+ Strategy Shifts From Pilots to Industrial Scale
China's AI+ initiative moves from pilots to large-scale industrial deployment, backed by the 15th Five-Year Plan and a $100B AI market forecast.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
AI Chip Competition: Who Can Challenge Nvidia's Dominance?
The AI chip market is shifting as CPUs resurge, custom ASICs rise, and supply chains diversify. Can Nvidia maintain its 80% market share?
—6 min read
EconomyCulture
Dragon Boat Festival: 124M Trips, $6.1B in Revenue
China's Dragon Boat Festival saw 124 million domestic trips and 44.5 billion yuan in revenue, with dragon boat racing and homestay stays driving growth.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
China Securities Stamp Tax Surges 88.8% on Market Boom
China's securities transaction stamp tax revenue surged 88.8% YoY to 126.2 billion yuan in Jan-May 2026, reflecting surging stock market activity.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
How AI Is Powering China's Trillion-Yuan Emotional Economy
AI is transforming China's 2.72 trillion yuan emotional economy. Guangming Daily explores how technology is reshaping consumer emotions.
—4 min read
EconomyTourism
Dragon Boat Festival Drives 650M Trips and Tourism Surge
China's Dragon Boat Festival holiday drove over 650 million trips, with cultural tourism booming, inbound travel up 31%, and consumer spending surging.
—4 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
Three Gorges New Navigation Channel Excavation Passes 50%
Excavation on the Three Gorges new navigation channel has passed 56% completion, marking rapid progress on China's $107 billion mega-project.
—4 min read
EconomyPolicy
China's Tax Reform Eases Burden on Low-Income Earners
China's personal income tax reform eases burdens on low-income earners as higher-income individuals contribute most revenue, with over 70% exempt.
—5 min read
Economy
China's Economy Shows Strength in Plan Opening Year
China's economy shows resilience in the 15th Five-Year Plan's opening year, with 5.0% Q1 GDP growth, surging trade, and advances in AI.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Belgium to Sell 20% Stake in Belfius Bank for €2 Billion
Belgium seeks a buyer for 20% of Belfius bank, aiming to raise €2 billion to reduce national debt while retaining 80% ownership.
—4 min read
Economy
Belgian Consumer Confidence at Highest Level in 20 Years
Belgian consumer confidence rose to -7 in June 2026, the highest level in two decades, as households grow more optimistic about the economy.
—4 min read
Legal & PolicyEconomy
China Advances Legal Reforms: CPA, Trademark, Antarctic
China advances three legal reforms: CPA law targeting financial fraud, trademark law cracking down on bad-faith registrations, and Antarctic tourism.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
Oil Falls Below $75 as Hormuz Traffic Recovers After Waiver
Oil drops below $75 for first time since March as Treasury issues 60-day Iran waiver and Strait of Hormuz traffic recovers, signaling de-escalation.
—5 min read
EconomyTax Policy
North Dakota Rises as Surprising Tax-Friendly Contender
North Dakota is quietly building one of America's most competitive tax systems, using oil wealth to keep income taxes low and challenge Texas and Florida.
—4 min read
EconomyMigration
California Exodus 2.0: Tech IPOs Fuel Flight to Florida
SpaceX's record IPO and looming tech IPOs could trigger a new wave of wealth migration from California to Florida, driven by tax and regulatory concerns.
—4 min read
ObituariesEconomy
Alan Greenspan, Former Federal Reserve Chairman, Dies at 100
Alan Greenspan, who served as Federal Reserve chairman from 1987 to 2006 and shaped U.S. monetary policy through boom and crisis, has died at 100.
—5 min read
International GeopoliticsEconomy
Iran Closes Strait of Hormuz Ahead of Key US-Iran Talks
Iran announces closure of the Strait of Hormuz hours before US-Iran talks in Switzerland, escalating tensions and threatening global oil markets.
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
China Exports Surge 19% as $9B Stimulus Targets Consumption
China's May exports surged 19% on AI-chip demand while retail sales shrank, prompting a fresh $9.2 billion consumer stimulus package.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China's AI Pricing Debate and YMTC's IPO Restructuring
China's AI industry debates charging for large language models as costs soar, while chipmaker YMTC restructures for a mega IPO amid a memory super-cycle.
—5 min read
FinanceEconomy
Shanghai Unveils Landmark Offshore Finance Blueprint
Shanghai launches a landmark offshore financial system at the Lujiazui Forum, with a three-phase plan including offshore RMB trading and FTZ bonds.
—6 min read
Financial MarketsEconomy
Gold Erases 2026 Gains as Goldman Sachs Slashes Price Target
Gold prices have wiped out all 2026 gains, falling over 22% from January's peak. Goldman Sachs and Citi slash targets as the Fed turns hawkish.
—4 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Shanghai Luxury Home Sales Slow as Buyers Get Picky
Shanghai luxury home sales over 100,000 yuan/sqm slow as buyers grow selective. Sales of 35M+ yuan homes drop 30% YoY in a cooling high-end market.
—5 min read
HealthcareEconomy
China Launches Drug Price Comparison Tool for Lower Costs
China's NHSA launches a nationwide drug price comparison mini-program across all 31 provinces, helping patients compare prices and reduce medication costs.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
YMTC Cedes Foundry Unit Control Ahead of Mega IPO
Chinese chipmaker YMTC sells 39% stake in foundry unit Wuhan Xinxin to state-backed fund, clearing path for blockbuster $44B STAR Market IPO.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
China Unveils Plan for Platform Economy Collaboration
Seven Chinese ministries issue a three-year action plan to remove bottlenecks between large and small enterprises in the platform economy.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
Belfius Sale Likely to Raise Banking Costs for Consumers
Belgium's planned sale of a 20% stake in state-owned Belfius could lead to higher bank fees, experts warn. The €2 billion privatization begins Monday.
—4 min read
Lifestyle & CultureEconomy
Non-Alcoholic Beer Surges in Belgium: Trend or Shift?
Non-alcoholic beer consumption surged 32% in Belgium in 2025. Experts debate whether this marks a genuine societal shift or a passing fad.
—5 min read
EconomyHousing
Income Needed to Buy a Home Nearly Doubles Since 2020
Harvard report finds income needed for a median-priced home has surged to over $120,000, nearly doubling since 2020 as the housing crisis deepens.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
Kevin Warsh Takes Over as Fed Chair: What Changes to Expect
Kevin Warsh takes over as Federal Reserve Chair, bringing shorter statements, hawkish signals, and task forces. Here's what his leadership means.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
China's Exports Surge 19% as Domestic Consumption Shrinks
China's June 21 roundup: ICBM analysis, $9B stimulus, 19% export surge, YMTC IPO restructuring, NSA spy pop-up warning, and anti-corruption.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
China's May Exports Surge 19% on AI Chips and EV Boom
China's exports surged 19.4% in May 2026 on AI chip demand and EV exports. Analysts warn the boom masks weak domestic consumption.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Injects $9 Billion Stimulus as Retail Sales Shrink
China injects $9.2 billion in new consumer subsidies as May retail sales post first decline since 2022, signaling challenges for domestic demand.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Opens STAR Market Listing for AI Large Model Firms
China expands STAR Market listing standards to AI large model firms, enabling unprofitable tech giants to access A-share capital markets for growth.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium's Richest 50 Hold €85.5 Billion in Luxembourg Assets
Investigation reveals Belgium's 50 wealthiest families hold €85.5 billion in Luxembourg companies, sparking debate on tax justice and wealth inequality.
—4 min read
Social PolicyEconomy
Belgium Unemployment Reform: Only 1 in 10 Excluded Find Work
Only one in ten Belgians who lost unemployment benefits under Belgium's reform have found work, new ONEM data reveals, raising questions about the policy.
—5 min read
EnergyEconomy
Belgium Pays €27 Million in Nuclear Subsidies for First Time
Belgium paid 27 million euros to keep Doel 4 and Tihange 3 reactors running, the first nuclear subsidies this century amid a push for state takeover.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Plan Oxygène: 100M Euros Spent on Struggling Walloon Towns
Wallonia's Plan Oxygène has cost 100 million euros since 2022, covering loan interest for 27 struggling municipalities.
—4 min read
Local GovernmentEconomy
Molenbeek's 'Truth Budget': €312,000 Deficit, 40 Layoffs
Molenbeek-Saint-Jean presents a 'truth budget' with a €312,000 deficit, 40 layoffs, and reduced bonuses as the Brussels commune faces financial pressures.
—4 min read
EconomyReal Estate
Income Needed for a Home Nearly Doubles Since 2020
Harvard report: income needed for a median-priced home surged from $66,000 to over $120,000 since 2020, deepening the housing affordability crisis.
—6 min read
PoliticsEconomy
SNAP Decline: 4 Million Fewer Under New Work Requirements
SNAP enrollment dropped by 4 million after work requirements expanded. Experts are divided on whether the decline signals progress or a hunger crisis.
—7 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump's Stock Trades Surge to 3,600, Raise Ethics Questions
Trump's accounts executed over 3,600 stock trades worth up to $695 million in three months, sparking bipartisan calls for ethics investigations.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Meta Invests $115M in Free Training for AI Data Center Jobs
Meta's $115M America's Workforce Academy offers free tuition, paid training, and guaranteed jobs in skilled trades for AI data center construction.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Unveils 'AI + Consumption' Policy by Eight Ministries
Eight Chinese ministries jointly issue 'AI + Consumption' opinions with 17 measures to integrate AI into smart homes, elderly care, education and more.
—5 min read
EconomyAsia
Hong Kong Rises to Second in 2026 Competitiveness Rankings
Hong Kong climbs to second in the 2026 IMD World Competitiveness Yearbook, its highest since 2019, led by top tax policy and business legislation.
—4 min read
EconomyRegulation
China Moves to Curb Food Delivery 'Subsidy Wars'
China's market regulator proposes new rules to rein in excessive food delivery subsidies, targeting 'involution-style' competition distorting the market.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
China Issues Action Plan for Platform Economy Collaboration
Seven Chinese government departments release a 2026-2028 action plan for coordinated development of large and small enterprises in the platform economy.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
China's 92-Octane Gasoline Returns to '7 Yuan Era'
China's 92-octane gasoline drops back to 7.8-7.9 yuan/liter after NDRC cuts prices by 515 yuan/ton. Analysts predict a third consecutive cut on July 3.
—4 min read
EconomyReal Estate
China's First-Tier Housing Markets Show Stabilization Signs
China's first-tier cities report four consecutive months of housing price growth amid policy support, signaling a potential market stabilization.
—5 min read
EconomyAgriculture
China's Pork Prices Rebound: Has the Pig Cycle Turned?
Pork prices in China have rebounded for consecutive days, sparking debate over whether the pig cycle has turned. Experts analyze the outlook.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
China's 618 Shopping Festival Shows New Consumer Vitality
China's 618 shopping festival shows 7.7% online retail growth, AI-powered e-commerce, and a surge in health and service consumption.
—4 min read
Trade & InfrastructureEconomy
China-Europe Railway Trips Surge 10.8-Fold in a Decade
China-Europe Railway Express annual trips surge 10.8-fold in a decade, linking 129 Chinese cities with 236 cities across 26 European countries.
—5 min read
Energy & InfrastructureEconomy
China's First Transmission Rights Auction Reshapes Grid
China completes its first transmission rights transaction on the Yunxiao DC channel, shifting power allocation from planning to market bidding.
—5 min read
EconomyInvestment
Foreign Investors More Confident in Allocating to China
At the 2026 Lujiazui Forum, global investors expressed rising confidence in China, citing economic resilience, AI innovation, and opening-up policies.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Belgium Energy Excise Reform: Who Pays and Who Saves?
Belgium's energy excise reform shifts taxes from electricity to fossil fuels starting August 2026. See how much your household will pay or save.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium Expands Flexi-Job System to All Sectors from July 1
Belgium's flexi-job system expands to all sectors July 1. Workers earn up to €18,440 tax-free. Critics warn of social costs and job displacement.
—5 min read
EconomyBelgium
Student Work Surges in Belgium: 650,000 Now Hold Jobs
New ONSS data reveals nearly 650,000 Belgian student workers, a 25% increase in a decade. Critics warn reform is displacing regular jobs.
—6 min read
EconomyPolitics
Brussels Horeca Protests Parking Prices: 'Dying in Droves'
Brussels hotel, restaurant and café owners protest soaring parking prices, saying costs are driving customers away and threatening business survival.
—4 min read
Economy
Belgian Diesel Drops to €1.903 as Oil Tensions Ease
Belgium's SPF Economy announces diesel prices will fall to €1.903 per liter on Saturday, the second drop in a week amid easing US-Iran tensions.
—4 min read
EconomyBelgium
Den Otter Trucks buys Van Hool site in Lier after mix-up
Dutch truck firm Den Otter Trucks buys Van Hool's 30-hectare site in Lier for EUR 21.5 million, after mayor mistakenly named Turkish firm as buyer.
—5 min read
EconomyBelgium
Van Hool Site Sold for €21.5 Million Amid Buyer Confusion
The former Van Hool site in Koningshooikt sold for €21.5 million to Dutch firm Den Otter Trucks, with brief confusion over the buyer's identity.
—5 min read
Economy
Belgian Flag Surges to Fourth in Europe as Fleet Triples
The Belgian merchant fleet surged to 4th in Europe by tonnage, driven by tax reform and a major merger. The fleet grew from 80 to 210 ships.
—4 min read
EconomyHousing
Income for Median-Priced Home Nearly Doubles Since 2020
Harvard report: Income needed for a median-priced US home nearly doubled to $120,000 since 2020 as prices outpace wages.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
O'Leary Warns US Data Center Delays Hand AI Edge to China
Kevin O'Leary warns China will dominate AI if US keeps stalling data center production, sparking debate over national security and competitiveness.
—5 min read
EducationEconomy
Trump Administration Cuts Student Loan Interest for Auto-Pay
The Trump administration announces a temporary 1% student loan interest rate cut for auto-pay enrollees amid rising delinquencies and a system overhaul.
—4 min read
EconomySocial Policy
Bank King Card Launched to Aid Single Mothers in Poverty
Redemption Bank launches Bank King Card on Juneteenth, donating from each account to guaranteed income programs for single mothers in government housing.
—5 min read
Economy
US Gas Prices Dip Below $4 for First Time Since March
US gas prices fell below $4 per gallon for the first time since March after the US-Iran peace deal, but remain 25% higher than last year amid inflation.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Opens STAR Market to Unprofitable AI Startups
China advances AI and smart infrastructure: STAR Market opens to unprofitable AI firms, first smart ship completes trial, buildings get digital IDs.
—6 min read
EconomySocial Policy
China Unveils Five-Year Plan to Tackle Youth Job Crisis
China's State Council issues a sweeping employment strategy for 2026-2030, targeting youth unemployment, AI disruption, and structural labor mismatches.
—5 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China Confirms Bumper Summer Grain Harvest Despite Adversity
China's summer grain harvest exceeds 90% completion, with a bumper crop confirmed despite historic flooding, pest pressures, and adverse weather.
—4 min read
Economy
Hainan Free Trade Port: Six-Month Business and Trade Surge
Six months after customs closure, Hainan Free Trade Port reports 172,100 new businesses, 54.6% trade growth, and zero-tariff imports up 120%.
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
Hainan Free Trade Port: Tangible Gains Six Months On
Six months after full closure, Hainan Free Trade Port reports 123% surge in new enterprises, doubled zero-tariff imports, and booming tourism.
—5 min read
EconomyInfrastructure
China Expands Logistics Network to Boost Real Economy
China upgrades its national logistics network under the Six Networks strategy, with 229 hubs planned and major investments driving supply chain efficiency.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
China's Five-Year Plan Targets AI and Gig Worker Challenges
China's State Council releases a five-year employment plan addressing AI disruption, flexible worker protections, and full employment goals through 2030.
—4 min read
EconomyRegulation
China to Curb Food Delivery 'Subsidy Wars' with New Rules
China's market regulator proposes new rules to rein in food delivery platform subsidy wars that have distorted competition and hurt small businesses.
—5 min read
EconomyEnvironment
China's Green Transition Opens Doors for Multinational Firms
At the 7th Qingdao Summit, 357 multinationals from 44 countries explored green investment as China's 15th Five-Year Plan accelerates sustainable growth.
—4 min read
EconomyBusiness
2026 China Brand Forum Held in Xiong'an
The 2026 China Brand Forum convened in Xiong'an, gathering policymakers and industry leaders to discuss brand innovation under the 15th Five-Year Plan.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China's Smart Computing Capacity Surges 2.5x, NDRC Says
China's NDRC announces smart computing capacity reached 188.2 PFLOPS by end of March, 2.5 times last year's level, as AI infrastructure accelerates.
—4 min read
EconomyPolicy
China Unveils Major Economic Reforms in Green, Finance, Jobs
China announces major economic reforms on June 18: green transition initiatives, new employment strategy, QDII quotas, and financial opening pledges.
—5 min read
HealthcareEconomy
Fewer Than Half of Americans Can Afford Quality Healthcare
Only 49% of U.S. adults can afford quality healthcare, a five-year low. The West Health-Gallup poll shows 2.8 million more lost affordability in 2025.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump's Iran Deal Splits GOP as Gas Prices Drop Below $4
Trump's Iran deal splits Republicans as gas prices drop below $4. A new poll finds most Americans disapprove of Trump's handling of the economy.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
California Billionaire Tax Qualifies for November Ballot
A proposed 5% tax on California billionaires to fund healthcare is slated for the November ballot, sparking a fierce battle between unions and Newsom.
—6 min read
EconomyEmployment
Teens Face Tough Summer Job Search as Jobless Rate at 14.7%
Teen unemployment hit 14.7% in May 2026 as inflation and competition from older workers create one of the toughest summer job markets in decades.
—4 min read
EconomyTravel
Jet Fuel Prices Are Falling, but Airfares Won't Follow Soon
Jet fuel prices have dropped to their lowest since the Iran war began, but airlines are unlikely to pass savings to passengers anytime soon.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Retail Sales Shrink for First Time Since 2022
China's retail sales fell 0.6% in May, the first decline since 2022, as consumer spending weakens and property woes deepen, signaling economic pressure.
—5 min read
EconomyReal Estate
China's May Economy: Steady Growth, Housing Recovery Signs
China's May economy shows steady growth as high-tech manufacturing surges 15.1% and first-tier housing prices rise, signaling market stabilization.
—5 min read
BusinessEconomy
NIO Founder Warns China Car Sales Could Plunge 20% in 2026
NIO founder William Li predicts China's auto sales will fall 15-20% in 2026 as the market enters its most brutal phase of competition.
—4 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
China's Trillion-Yuan Pipeline Network Fuels Urban Renewal
China launches a 5-trillion-yuan underground pipeline upgrade across 2,000+ cities, using AI and IoT to modernize aging infrastructure.
—4 min read
BusinessEconomy
7th Multinational Summit Opens in Qingdao for Business
The 7th Multinational Corporation Leaders Summit opens in Qingdao with 357 global firms, as China signals openness to foreign investment.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China's Heavy Trucks Go Smart: Autonomous Driving Push
China leads globally with 2,108 autonomous trucks as the heavy truck industry advances smart driving in mines, ports, and highways.
—5 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
China's $970B 'Six Networks' Infrastructure Drive for 2026
China's NDRC advances the 'Six Networks' plan with over 7 trillion yuan in 2026 investment, targeting water, power, computing, and logistics.
—4 min read
FinanceEconomy
China Banks Tighten Gold Risk Controls Amid Price Swings
China's six largest banks raise gold margin requirements to 120% amid extreme price volatility, signaling a systemic shift in risk management.
—4 min read
FinanceEconomy
China's Central Bank Unveils Major Reforms at Lujiazui Forum
PBOC Governor Pan Gongsheng announces six major reforms at the 2026 Lujiazui Forum, including offshore RMB forex trading and a new FIMA RMB Repo facility.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Walloon Cities Sound Alarm Over Financial Crisis
Wallonia's major cities warn of a deepening financial crisis as rising costs and insufficient funding threaten essential public services.
—4 min read
EconomyBusiness
Colruyt Loses Market Share but Refuses Sunday Openings
Colruyt loses market share to Sunday-opening rivals. CEO Stefan Goethaert explains why the chain won't open Sundays without labor cost reform.
—4 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
Charleroi Invests €50M in Major R9 Ring Road Renovation
Charleroi announces €50 million renovation of the R9 ring road, including tunnels, viaducts, and Boulevard Mayence, with work starting in early 2027.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang Calls for New AI Social Norms
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang calls for new social norms in the age of AI, urging widespread adoption while addressing regulation and manufacturing challenges.
—5 min read
BusinessEconomy
Musk's Delaware Feud Triggers $3 Trillion Corporate Exodus
Elon Musk's legal battle with Delaware over his Tesla pay sparked a mass corporate exodus, with over $3 trillion in market cap leaving the state.
—6 min read
Politics & PolicyEconomy
Lincoln, Illinois Fears Future as Prison Closure Looms
The closure of Logan Correctional Center threatens to devastate Lincoln, Illinois, a town already reeling from the loss of colleges and factories.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Unlikely Coalition Opposes California Billionaire Tax
Progressive groups, unions, and tech billionaires unite to oppose California's proposed billionaire tax ahead of the June 25 ballot deadline.
—5 min read
EconomyReal Estate
China Housing Price Declines Narrow in May
China's housing price declines narrowed across all city tiers in May 2026, with first-tier cities seeing monthly gains, signaling market stabilization.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium's €7B Budget Effort Falls Short, Minister Warns
Belgian Budget Minister Van Peteghem warns the €7 billion budget exercise is insufficient, as deficit projections worsen and coalition divisions deepen.
—4 min read
Economy
NBS: Profit Differentiation Widens as Enterprise Costs Rise
China's NBS reports rising enterprise costs and profit differentiation across industries, with mid-to-downstream firms facing temporary pressures.
—4 min read
EconomyInfrastructure
China-Europe Rail Eastern Corridor Hits 40,000 Trips
The China-Europe Railway Express Eastern Corridor surpassed 40,000 trips, shipping over 3.9 million TEUs as the busiest transcontinental rail corridor.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China's Economy Steady as High-Tech Manufacturing Surges
China's economy grew steadily in Jan-May 2026 with industrial output up 5.4%, but weak demand and real estate challenges persist, NBS data shows.
—5 min read
International PoliticsEconomy
EU Approves Turnberry Deal as Trump Threatens New Surtaxes
European Parliament approves Turnberry trade deal as Trump proposes new tariffs of up to 12.5% on EU goods over forced labor concerns.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Record €7.3M Energy Fines for Builders: How to Avoid Them
Flemish authorities issued a record €7.3 million in EPB energy fines in 2025. Learn why fines are soaring and how builders can avoid costly penalties.
—4 min read
Economy
New EU Tax on Non-EU Packages: What It Means for Your Orders
From July 1, a new EU levy adds €3 per item on non-European packages from Temu, Shein, and Amazon. Here’s how much more you’ll pay and why.
—5 min read
EducationEconomy
Teacher Pay Market-Conform, Directors Lag 28% Behind Private
A confidential Flemish report reveals teachers earn market-conform salaries, but school directors face a 24-28% pay gap versus private sector.
—5 min read
TransportEconomy
Brussels Airport Operations Resume After Aviapartner Strike
Brussels Airport returns to normal after a 24-hour spontaneous strike by Aviapartner ground staff disrupted 60 flights. Conciliation talks are underway.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Walloon Budget Debate: PS Warns of Painful Austerity Cuts
Christie Morreale of Belgium's Socialist Party criticizes the Walloon budget adjustment, arguing savings can be made without harming citizens.
—4 min read
BusinessEconomy
Walloon SME Elneo Acquires Rivals in France and Netherlands
Belgian compressed air specialist Elneo buys Alto Instruments and Airtec Pneumatic Engineering, boosting revenue to €30 million.
—4 min read
BusinessEconomy
Neuhaus Opens First Mumbai Store, Bringing Pralines to India
Belgian chocolate maker Neuhaus opens its first Indian boutique at Navi Mumbai International Airport, with a second store in Mumbai following in July.
—4 min read
BusinessEconomy
Syensqo at a Crossroads: New CEO Charts a Bold Path Forward
Syensqo CEO Mike Radossich unveils a strategic pivot toward advanced materials and aerospace, launching a review of the Performance & Care segment.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
TikTok Shop Arrives in Belgium: What Users Need to Know
TikTok Shop has launched in Belgium, letting users buy products directly in the app. We break down how it works, the risks, and expert warnings.
—4 min read
Economy
Gas Prices in Belgium Drop to Lowest Level Since Mid-March
Belgian gas prices fall to three-month low as SPF Économie announces cuts of up to 6.3 cents per litre, driven by US-Iran peace deal progress.
—4 min read
International PoliticsEconomy
US-Iran Peace Deal Signed as CIA Doubts Nuclear Commitments
US and Iran signed a preliminary peace deal on June 15, sending oil prices tumbling. But the CIA has raised serious doubts about Iran's nuclear pledges.
—5 min read
EconomyInternational
Iran War Permanently Altered Global Economy, NYT Finds
Despite a framework deal to end US-Iran hostilities, the war has permanently reshaped oil trade, supply chains, and the global economy, NYT analysis finds.
—6 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Nvidia's Huang: AI Will Create Jobs, Texas Factory Is Test
Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang says AI will create manufacturing jobs, not eliminate them. A $2B Texas factory with Coherent puts that claim to the test.
—5 min read
BusinessEconomy
J&J CEO Credits Trump Tax Policies for $55B US Push
J&J CEO Joaquin Duato credits Trump tax policies for a $55 billion US investment push, including $1 billion in Jacksonville, Florida.
—4 min read
EconomyReal Estate
Three Months Free Rent: Why Landlords Are Courting Tenants
A construction boom has given renters unprecedented leverage, with 39.8% of rentals offering move-in incentives. But the relief is uneven and temporary.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China Daily Roundup: Xi-Myanmar Talks, Economy, Tech News
China's top stories June 16: Xi Jinping meets Myanmar president, steady economic growth, quantum chip breakthrough, and narrowing housing price declines.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China Daily Briefing: Diplomacy, Economy, Tech Breakthroughs
China's June 16 news roundup: Xi-Myanmar cooperation, steady economic growth, silicon-28 quantum chip breakthrough, 38 new university majors, and more.
—5 min read
FinanceEconomy
China Tightens Mutual Fund Rules to Curb Style Drift
China's AMAC releases four new mutual fund regulations targeting style drift, investor suitability, and public-private fund conflicts.
—5 min read
International TradeEconomy
10th China-South Asia Expo Opens as Trade Tops $200 Billion
The 10th China-South Asia Expo in Kunming marks a milestone as bilateral trade exceeds $200 billion, with record participation from 68 countries.
—4 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Wheat Harvest Nears Completion at 86.95%
China's summer wheat harvest reaches 86.95% completion as farmers accelerate harvesting and planting with smart agricultural technologies.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China May Data: M1 Growth Accelerates, M2 Holds Steady
China's May financial data shows M1 money supply growth accelerating to 5.5% while M2 remains stable at 8.6%, signaling improved liquidity.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
AI Moves from Digital to Physical: Industry Leaders Map Path
At Bosch Connected World 2026, leaders from Bosch, Alibaba and Volkswagen outlined how AI is moving from digital to manufacturing and robotics.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Braces for Budget Storm as Coalition Tensions Mount
Ivan De Vadder warns of an impending Belgian budget crisis as the Arizona coalition faces internal divisions over defense and social spending.
—4 min read
Consumer ProtectionEconomy
China Issues Jewelry and Precious Metals Fraud Warning
China's consumer watchdog warns on precious metals, jewelry, and jade fraud, revealing 19,421 complaints and deceptive livestreaming practices.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
TikTok Shop Arrives in Belgium: A New Era of Impulse Buying
TikTok Shop launches in Belgium, enabling in-app purchases. Experts warn of impulse buying risks, data privacy concerns, and youth vulnerability.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium's Commuting Allowance Tax Break Fails to Gain Ground
Only 4% of Belgian companies have adopted a government-backed commuting allowance tax credit aimed at helping workers cope with rising fuel costs.
—4 min read
Economy
Diesel Price Drops Below 2 Euros in Belgium, Oil Also Falls
Diesel price in Belgium falls below 2 euros per liter for the first time since March 11. Heating oil also drops as Iran-US peace deal eases markets.
—3 min read
BusinessEconomy
H&M Ghlin Workers Accept Deal, Ending Labor Dispute
H&M Logistics workers in Ghlin voted 306-17-1 to accept redundancy proposals, ending a dispute marked by a rare lock-out.
—4 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
China Elevates 'Six Networks' to National Strategic Priority
China elevates six major infrastructure networks to national strategic priority, with over 7 trillion yuan in 2026 investment for modernization.
—4 min read
EmploymentEconomy
Belgian Temp Agency Encore Plus Opens Doors for Seniors
Encore Plus, a new temp agency in Tournai, Belgium, exclusively serves workers aged 55+ and retirees seeking purpose and income.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
South Asia Expo Signs $3.5B in Energy, Boosts Green Deals
The 10th China-South Asia Expo signed 18 energy projects worth over 25.7 billion yuan, featuring China's first green certificate deal with Laos.
—4 min read
FinanceEconomy
China Allows Pension Accounts to Buy Savings Bonds
China expands pension options as savings bonds become available through retirement accounts, offering stable returns above bank deposit rates.
—4 min read
Economy
Gold Fever Melts Luxury Watches as Metal Trumps Craft
Gold prices near $4,200/oz drive luxury watch melting trend in China and globally, as mid-range timepieces are scrapped for bullion.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Taiwan Summer Electricity Prices Hit Record High
Taiwan summer electricity prices hit record NT$8.86 per kWh as People's Daily criticizes DPP political maneuvering amid energy policy failures.
—5 min read
EnvironmentEconomy
China Sets Five-Year Target for Bamboo Express Packaging
China targets 1 billion bamboo express packaging units by 2030 with 50% annual growth, replacing plastic in the world's largest delivery market.
—4 min read
Economy
China's Foreign Trade Tops 4 Trillion Yuan for Third Month
China's foreign trade exceeded 4 trillion yuan for three straight months through May 2026, with total trade up 15.3% to 20.68 trillion yuan.
—4 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Grain Harvest Surpasses 85% Completion
China's summer wheat harvest reaches 85% completion as of June 13, with rapid mechanized progress across major growing regions amid weather challenges.
—4 min read
EconomyConsumer
Lithium Batteries, Lost Cash and Pet Food: Belgium Roundup
From hidden fire risks in household waste to vanishing ATM deposits and a dog food recall, four Belgian consumer stories reveal systemic gaps.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
Beijing Rewrites Rules for Chinese Capital Going Global
China issues landmark outbound investment rules, expanding oversight to individuals, tightening tech controls, and creating a security review mechanism.
—5 min read
Health & SocietyEconomy
China's Smoking Paradox: Low Taxes Undermine Health Goals
China's 350 million smokers face a paradox: low cigarette taxes undermine health goals while tobacco revenue fills state coffers. Can Beijing act?
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
China Sets New Record for Single-Ship NEV Exports
China sets a new single-ship NEV export record as the Glovis Lighthouse departs for Europe with 8,000 vehicles, highlighting the 'new three' export boom.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
Hainan Free Trade Port Completes First Aircraft Dismantling
Hainan Free Trade Port completes its first aircraft dismantling, marking a milestone in aviation services and positioning the region as a recycling hub.
—4 min read
Politics & DiplomacyEconomy
US Blacklists Chinese Firms; Beijing Vows Countermeasures
The US adds Alibaba, BYD, Baidu, and dozens more Chinese companies to its military blacklist. China's MOFCOM responds with threats of retaliation.
—4 min read
TransportationEconomy
China Railway Passenger Traffic Hits Record in Jan-May 2026
China's railway carried over 1.9 billion passengers from January to May 2026, a 5.7% year-on-year increase, setting a new historical record for the period.
—4 min read
Economy
NBB Forecasts: Inflation Spike, Slowing Growth in Belgium
The National Bank of Belgium projects inflation at 3.4% and GDP growth halving to 0.6% as the Iran war delivers a temporary shock to the economy.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Wallonia Inheritance Tax Reform in Doubt Amid Budget Crisis
Walloon Minister-President Dolimont questions already-voted inheritance tax reform as region faces €2 billion deficit.
—4 min read
EnergyEconomy
Belgian State Paid More for Nuclear Power Than It Received
New figures reveal the Belgian state paid more for electricity from Doel 4 and Tihange 3 than it earned from sales, reigniting debate over nuclear costs.
—4 min read
Travel & LifestyleEconomy
Belgians to Spend €1,690 on Average for Summer Holidays
Belgians will spend an average of €1,690 on summer holidays in 2026, up 5%. Greece overtakes Turkey while US travel sees sharp decline.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump Loses Support Among Independents and Blue-Collar Base
AP-NORC polling shows Trump's support among independents has fallen 17 points since 2024, while blue-collar voters doubt his economic leadership.
—5 min read
EconomyBusiness
China's Economy Resilient: Foreign Investment, Chip Boom
China's economy signals strength: 530,000+ foreign firms, Japan chip exports surge 48%, and family trusts near 1 trillion yuan.
—6 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China's NEV Penetration Hits 56.9% as EVs Go Mainstream
China's new energy vehicle penetration rate reached 56.9% in May 2026, driven by AI tech, falling battery costs, and expanding charging infrastructure.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Accelerates New Smart Manufacturing Rollout
China designates new generation smart manufacturing as main strategic direction for new industrialization, targeting trillion-yuan market.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Accelerates New Generation Smart Manufacturing Rollout
China designates new generation smart manufacturing as main strategic direction for new industrialization, targeting trillion-yuan market.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
Japan Chip Exports to China Surge 48% as Trade Rebounds
Japan's semiconductor exports to China surged 47.9% in 2025 to $28.7 billion, driven by AI demand, as bilateral trade rebounded 6.2%.
—5 min read
EconomyBusiness
China FDI Tops $3.6 Trillion; High-Tech Investment at Record
China hosts over 530,000 foreign-funded enterprises with $3.6 trillion in FDI. High-tech investment surges 20.3%, reaching a record 40.4% share.
—6 min read
EconomyBusiness
China Family Trusts Hit $147B as Wealth Transfers Rise
UBS reports China's family trust market neared $147 billion in 2025, driven by first-generation entrepreneurs planning wealth transfers.
—4 min read
EconomyBusiness
Caixin Summer Summit Opens in Hong Kong on AI and GBA
The 9th Caixin Summer Summit opens in Hong Kong, uniting leaders to discuss AI, Greater Bay Area integration, and global expansion.
—4 min read
EconomyTransport
Ryanair Slashes 2 Million Seats from Belgium in Tax Dispute
Ryanair cuts 2 million seats from Belgium, blaming the government's aviation tax hike. Five aircraft will leave Charleroi, affecting 20 routes.
—4 min read
EconomyInflation
US Producer Prices Surge 6.5% in May on Iran Energy Shock
US producer prices rose 6.5% in May, the largest yearly jump since 2022, driven by soaring energy costs from the Iran war and Hormuz closure.
—5 min read
SportsEconomy
2026 World Cup Opens: Historic Tri-Nation Tournament Begins
The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off as the first tri-nation tournament co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico, with 48 teams and Yiwu making most merch.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
China Names Hydrogen a Future Industry in New Five-Year Plan
China's 15th Five-Year Plan designates hydrogen as a future industry, targeting 100,000 fuel cell vehicles and hydrogen under 25 yuan/kg by 2030.
—5 min read
Economy
China's Marine Economy Hits 11 Trillion Yuan, Index Shows
China's gross ocean product hit 11 trillion yuan in 2025, up 5.5%, as a new Marine Economic Development Index signals high-quality growth.
—4 min read
EconomyInfrastructure
China's Water Network Investment to Exceed 6 Trillion Yuan
China's 15th Five-Year Plan water network investment exceeds 6 trillion yuan, signaling major growth for infrastructure and water conservancy sectors.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Liege Airport Resumes Controversial Cargo Route to Xinjiang
Liege Airport quietly resumed cargo flights to Xinjiang, sparking controversy over human rights. The Belgian government now faces pressure to respond.
—4 min read
HealthcareEconomy
Gender Pay Gap Widens Among Doctors at Belgian Hospitals
Female doctors in Belgium earn less than male colleagues, with inequality growing at university hospitals. New data reveals persistent pay disparities.
—5 min read
EconomyRegulation
Beijing Cracks Down on E-Commerce 'Involution,' Probes J&T
Beijing regulators summon five major e-commerce platforms over 'involution-style' competition, while the State Post Bureau probes J&T Express.
—5 min read
Economy
Coffee Prices Hit Record Highs, Farmers See No Gains
Coffee prices hit historic highs in Belgium, but farmers aren't benefiting. A new report reveals how the global supply chain fails producers.
—4 min read
HousingEconomy
5,000 Homes Lost to Airbnb in Brussels, Antwerp and Ghent
ING study reveals nearly 5,000 homes in Brussels, Antwerp, and Ghent have left the rental market for Airbnb, worsening Belgium's housing crisis.
—4 min read
EconomyGeopolitics
Oil Prices Surge Past $95 After New US Strikes on Iran
Brent crude surges above $95 after second day of US strikes on Iran. Strait of Hormuz blockade, Belgian fuel impact, and global inflation fears explained.
—4 min read
Economy
ECB Raises Rates by 25 Basis Points as Inflation Hits 3.2%
The ECB raised interest rates by 25 basis points to combat inflation driven by Middle East tensions, increasing credit costs across the Eurozone.
—4 min read
HousingEconomy
Over 4 in 10 Belgian Homes Now Bought by Single Buyers
New data shows 42% of Belgian homes were bought by singles in 2025, up from 40% in 2024. Young buyers aged 26-30 lead the trend.
—4 min read
EconomyCrime
Red Devils Jersey Counterfeiting Costs Belgium €320M Yearly
Counterfeit Red Devils jerseys flood Belgium as World Cup demand surges. Authorities warn fake merchandise costs €320M yearly and may fund organized crime.
—4 min read
International ConflictEconomy
U.S.-Iran Conflict Escalates: Tanker Strikes and Fallout
U.S. strikes a third tanker carrying Iranian oil, killing three Indian sailors, as Iran retaliates and the World Bank warns of slowing global growth.
—6 min read
Economy
Inflation Hits 4.2%, Highest in 3 Years, on Energy Surge
U.S. inflation hit 4.2% in May, highest in 3 years, as Iran war drove gas prices up 40%. Producer prices surged 6.5%, biggest jump since 2022.
—5 min read
HealthcareEconomy
White House Suggests Loans for Medical Debt in New ACA Rules
Trump administration proposes insurers offer loans for out-of-pocket medical costs as 100 million Americans carry healthcare debt and premiums surge 57%.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump Says 'I Love the Inflation' as Prices Hit 3-Year High
President Trump said 'I love the inflation' as CPI hit 4.2%, a three-year high. Democrats seized on the remark ahead of November's midterm elections.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Bezos AI Venture and Anthropic's $200M Pledge Reshape Debate
Jeff Bezos' Prometheus raises $12B to build an 'Artificial General Engineer,' while Anthropic commits $200M to study AI's economic impact on jobs.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Why Building a Robot Without China Is Nearly Impossible
China controls 63% of the global humanoid robot supply chain, producing parts at half the cost of Western competitors and reshaping automation.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Anthropic Pledges $350M to Study AI's Impact on Jobs
Anthropic commits $350M to research AI's economic impact and job displacement, while CEO Dario Amodei calls for FAA-style regulation of frontier AI models.
—4 min read
Economy
China's May CPI Rises 1.2% as PPI Surges to 3.9%
China's May CPI rose 1.2% year-on-year, unchanged from April, while PPI surged 3.9%, widening the gap between producer and consumer prices.
—4 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Wheat Harvest Nears 70% Completion
China's summer wheat harvest nears 70% completion with 233 million mu harvested, supporting national grain security goals under the 15th Five-Year Plan.
—4 min read
PolicyEconomy
China Overhauls Housing Provident Fund in Major Expansion
China proposes sweeping reforms to its Housing Provident Fund, expanding usage beyond home purchases to cover renovations, rent, and fees.
—5 min read
Society & Consumer RightsEconomy
Chinese Telecom Giants Accused of 'Customer Killing'
Chinese media slams telecom carriers for charging loyal customers more than new users. The Paper's investigation reveals systemic price discrimination.
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
China Cold Chain Logistics Market to Hit 585 Billion Yuan
China's cold chain logistics market is projected to surpass 585 billion yuan in 2026, driven by fresh food and pharmaceutical demand.
—4 min read
EconomyInternational Relations
Liège Airport Quietly Reopens Xinjiang Cargo Route
Liège Airport has discreetly reestablished a cargo air route from Xinjiang, China, raising concerns over forced labor and EU enforcement gaps.
—4 min read
EconomyEducation
Student Work in Belgium Surges 58% Between 2017 and 2024
Student work in Belgium surged 58% from 2017-2024, outpacing regular employment. A Planning Bureau study examines financial pressures and academic impacts.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
U.S. Inflation Hits 4.2% as Iran War Drives Energy Costs
U.S. inflation surged to 4.2% in May, a three-year high, as the Iran war drives energy costs. Core CPI rose 2.9%, raising questions about Fed policy.
—5 min read
EconomySocial Policy
Social Security Reserves to Run Out by 2032, Report Warns
2026 Trustees Report warns Social Security retirement trust fund will be exhausted by late 2032, triggering automatic 22% benefit cuts.
—4 min read
Energy & EnvironmentEconomy
Solar Power Surpasses Coal in US for First Month on Record
Solar supplied 12.8% of US electricity in May 2026, beating coal's 12.2% for the first time ever, despite Trump administration efforts to boost coal.
—5 min read
Economy
China Trade Up 15.3% as Leading Indicators Signal Stability
China's foreign trade grew 15.3% to 20.68 trillion yuan in Jan-May 2026, while the excavator index and consumer data point to a stable, improving economy.
—4 min read
International FinanceEconomy
Gold Falls Below $4,300 as Rate Hike Fears Overwhelm Demand
Gold prices plunged below $4,300/oz, returning to end-2025 levels, as strong US jobs data and global tightening expectations outweigh geopolitical risks.
—5 min read
Diplomacy & TradeEconomy
China Rejects Zero-Sum Framing of EU Trade Relations
China's Foreign Ministry affirms EU economic ties are not a zero-sum game, pushing back against Brussels' de-risking narrative as trade tensions escalate.
—4 min read
FinanceEconomy
China: $35.6B Urban Renewal, $2.1B Hong Kong Bond Issuance
China announces 257 billion yuan urban renewal funding, 15 billion yuan Hong Kong bond issuance, and capital market reforms to boost innovation.
—5 min read
EconomySociety
Piketty's €5,000 Plan: Utopia or Blueprint for Justice?
Thomas Piketty proposes €5,000 monthly income for everyone by 2100 through global wealth taxes and green investment. We analyze the plan's feasibility.
—7 min read
Regional DevelopmentEconomy
China's Three Regions Unveil Five-Year Development Roadmaps
China's Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei, Yangtze River Delta, and Greater Bay Area release coordinated development roadmaps for 2026-2030.
—5 min read
LaborEconomy
Brussels Couriers Face Uncertain Future as Tax Deal Ends
Belgium's expired P2P tax ruling leaves thousands of Uber Eats and Deliveroo couriers in Brussels caught between two status options.
—5 min read
EnergyEconomy
Belgium Braces for Standoff with Engie Over Nuclear Takeover
Belgium moves to nationalize Engie's nuclear assets in a historic energy policy reversal, with negotiations over seven reactors at stake.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Belgium Joins European Top 5 for Business AI Adoption
Belgium ranks in the European top 5 for AI adoption, with 34.54% of businesses using AI in 2025, far exceeding the EU average of 19.95%.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
San Francisco Voters Reject Tax on Highly Paid Executives
San Francisco voters rejected Proposition D, a tax hike on companies with highly paid executives, signaling a shift toward centrist policies.
—4 min read
Health & LifestyleEconomy
Remote Work Linked to Higher Isolation, Anxiety, Study Finds
A major study in Science finds remote workers face 58% more alone time and higher rates of anxiety and depression, challenging work-from-home assumptions.
—5 min read
EducationEconomy
China Launches '100-Day Sprint' for Record 12.7M Graduates
China's Education Ministry launches a '100-Day Sprint' to boost employment for 12.7 million graduates, with 5M+ job postings and anti-fraud measures.
—4 min read
PolicyEconomy
China Overhauls Housing Provident Fund: Four Key Changes
China's Housing Provident Fund gets a major reform: expanded coverage for gig workers, new uses for renovation, faster loans, and cross-city portability.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
China's Forex Reserves Hit $3.44 Trillion, a 10-Year High
China's forex reserves hit $3.4422 trillion in May 2026, the highest in over a decade, driven by asset price gains and gold buying.
—4 min read
EconomyCrime
Belgian Zinc Giant Nyrstar Formally Suspected of Forgery
Belgian zinc giant Nyrstar faces criminal investigation for forgery and misuse of corporate assets, escalating its legal saga over the 2019 restructuring.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Foreign Capital Bets Big on China: What the Influx Signals
Foreign investors now hold over 4 trillion yuan in Chinese A-shares as QFII approvals surge. We analyze the key signals behind the capital inflow trend.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
China Halts Data-Backed Securities to Curb Debt Arbitrage
Chinese regulators suspend data-asset ABS amid concerns that local governments are using innovative financing to disguise debt and bypass borrowing limits.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
China Overhauls Deposit and Loan Interest Rate Rules
China's PBOC publishes draft rules overhauling deposit and loan interest rate management, targeting high-interest deposit-taking and penalty rules.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Gold Prices Plunge Again, Returning to End-of-2025 Levels
Gold prices crashed 3.25% on June 5, falling below $4,400/oz after US jobs data beat expectations, reigniting fears of Fed rate hikes.
—4 min read
International FinanceEconomy
South Korea Stocks Crash 8%, Trigger Circuit Breaker
South Korea's KOSPI crashed over 8% on June 8, triggering a circuit breaker. A US tech selloff, Fed fears, and Middle East tensions drove the plunge.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
China Boosts Future Industries, Targets More Unicorns
China ramps up policy support for future industries like quantum tech, biomanufacturing and nuclear fusion to cultivate more unicorn companies.
—5 min read
PolicyEconomy
China Approves 15th Five-Year Plan for Employment Strategy
China's State Council approves the 15th Five-Year Plan for Employment Priority Strategy, targeting record graduates and structural job challenges.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Flemish Government Bids to Buy Van Hool Industrial Site
The Flemish government bids on the 30-hectare Van Hool industrial site in Koningshooikt, citing a severe shortage of large industrial land.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Flying Cars Poised to Unlock Trillion-Yuan Market in China
China's flying car industry is set to open a multi-trillion yuan market, with 2026 marking mass production as EHang, AutoFlight, and XPeng lead the way.
—5 min read
Economy
Voka Growth Account Plan Aims to Unlock €185 Billion
Voka proposes a Swedish-style growth account to unlock €185 billion in idle Belgian savings, replacing multiple taxes with a single flat tax.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium Closes Tax Loophole Exploiting Bike Couriers
Belgium ends tax rulings allowing Uber Eats and Deliveroo to classify bike couriers as P2P side hustlers, forcing reclassification as employees.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Flanders Bets on Van Hool Site as Land Crisis Grows
The Flemish government enters a public auction for the 30-hectare Van Hool site, intervening to combat a severe shortage of large-scale industrial land.
—4 min read
EconomyBusiness
Cotti Coffee Arrives in Belgium with €1 Coffee Cups
Chinese coffee chain Cotti Coffee launches in Belgium with €0.99 cups, opening six stores. The aggressive pricing threatens Starbucks and Costa Coffee.
—5 min read
EnvironmentEconomy
Belgium's First Second-Hand Solar Panel Market Takes Shape
A Belgian company in Seraing is pioneering the reuse of functional solar panels, aiming to create an official second-hand market by 2028.
—4 min read
International ConflictEconomy
Iran and Israel Pull Back as US Economy Strains Under War
Iran and Israel de-escalate after exchanging direct strikes, while Trump defends his war record and US consumers feel the economic pinch.
—5 min read
EconomyHousing
China Expands Housing Provident Fund for Renters, Homeowners
China proposes expanding the Housing Provident Fund to cover renovations, property fees, and flexible workers to stabilize the housing market.
—5 min read
Urban DevelopmentEconomy
China Turns Urban 'Edge Spaces' Into Community Goldmines
Chinese cities transform neglected under-bridge areas into cinemas, sports parks and markets, driving new consumer demand through urban renewal.
—4 min read
EconomyEurope
Iran War Costs Belgian Economy €2.5 Billion
The Iran war has cost Belgium €2.5 billion in lost growth. Businesses report paralyzed subsidiaries, and economists warn the worst is yet to come.
—5 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Grain Harvest Nears 60% Completion
China's summer wheat harvest reaches 58.87% completion as 200 million mu reaped, with Anhui and Henan provinces leading at over 90% harvest progress.
—4 min read
EU & LaborEconomy
EU Pay Transparency Law Takes Effect, Most States Unprepared
The EU's landmark pay transparency directive takes effect today, granting workers the right to know colleagues' salaries. Only three states are ready.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
China's Forex Reserves Rise to $3.44 Trln; Gold Buying Up
China's forex reserves rose to $3.442 trillion in May, while the central bank added gold for a 19th consecutive month at an accelerating pace.
—5 min read
EconomyReal Estate
Belgium's Luxury Real Estate Market Shatters Records in 2025
Belgium sold a record 2,079 luxury properties over €1M in 2025, up 27.3%. Flanders leads with 74.4% of sales, while Wallonia surges 60.9% after fee cuts.
—4 min read
Middle East ConflictEconomy
Iran War Reshapes Economy as Conflict Spreads to Beirut
Oil spikes, US consumers cut spending, Israel bombs Beirut, and Trump claims a nuclear pledge as the Iran war enters its fourth month with no end in sight.
—6 min read
EconomyMiddle East Conflict
Iran War Reshapes US Consumer Spending as Oil Prices Surge
The Iran conflict drives oil above $100, forcing US consumers to cut spending and shift habits. OPEC+ boosts production as demand destruction fears grow.
—6 min read
SportsEconomy
Chicago Bears Advance Stadium Relocation to Hammond, Indiana
The Chicago Bears Board voted to advance a stadium project in Hammond, Indiana, signaling a likely end to over a century of football in Chicago.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
China's Service Exports Surge 15% as Global Push Accelerates
China's service exports hit 985 billion yuan in Jan-Apr 2026, up 15% year-on-year, as knowledge-intensive services and travel exports drive growth.
—4 min read
EconomyHousing
China Expands Housing Fund Use for Property Fees, Renovation
China proposes expanding the Housing Provident Fund to cover property fees, home renovation, and flexible housing consumption in a landmark reform.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Li Qiang Chairs State Council on Employment and Industry
Premier Li Qiang chaired a State Council meeting approving a 15th Five-Year employment plan and advancing new industrialization strategy.
—3 min read
EconomyEnergy
China's Solar Exports Surge 267% Despite Rebate Cancellation
China's solar PV exports to Southeast Asia surged 267% in April 2026, defying export tax rebate cancellation and underscoring Beijing's solar dominance.
—5 min read
EconomySociety
Shanghai Senior Expo Reveals China's Silver Economy Demands
The 2026 Shanghai Senior Expo reveals how China's aging population drives a ¥7 trillion silver economy with AI robots and smart homes.
—5 min read
TransportEconomy
Pilot Strike Strands Dozens of Ships at Port of Antwerp
A 24-hour strike by Belgian maritime pilots stranded dozens of ships at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges as a pension reform dispute continues.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Anders Party Proposes €16.7B Austerity Plan for Belgium
Belgium's Anders party unveils a €16.7B austerity plan targeting healthcare, civil service, and regional debt to address the federal budget deficit.
—4 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Belgium Luxury Real Estate Sales Hit Record High in 2025
Belgium sold 2,079 properties over €1 million in 2025, a 27.3% increase. Wallonia surged 60.9% after a tax cut. RTBF investigates who is buying.
—4 min read
HealthcareEconomy
One in Three Belgian Doctors Earn More Than the PM
De Morgen investigation finds one in three Belgian doctors with corporations earn more than PM Bart De Wever, sparking healthcare pay debate.
—4 min read
EconomyConsumer
Belgian Supermarket Inflation Hits Lowest Level Since 2021
Supermarket inflation in Belgium fell to 0.27% in May, the lowest since December 2021. But Testaankoop warns that new price hikes may be coming.
—4 min read
Labor & EmploymentEconomy
Belgian Labour Authority Rules ALDI Sunday Hours Illegal
Belgium's FOD Employment rules ALDI may only let staff work until noon on Sundays, rejecting plans for afternoon opening and clarifying retail labour law.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
US Adds 172,000 Jobs in May as Labor Market Rebounds
The US added 172,000 jobs in May, far exceeding expectations. But strong hiring complicates the Fed's inflation fight as new Chair Kevin Warsh prepares.
—4 min read
EconomyCulture
Tipping Has Become 'Ridiculous,' 78% of Americans Say
A new survey finds 78% of Americans say tipping has become ridiculous, as digital payment screens push higher gratuity amounts and fuel consumer backlash.
—5 min read
EconomyLifestyle
Fuel Prices Reshape Boaters' Summer Plans Amid Iran War
Higher gas prices driven by the Iran war are forcing American boaters to cut cruising distances, add fuel surcharges, and rethink summer plans.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
China Electronics Output Surges 14% on AI Manufacturing Boom
China's electronics output grew 14% in Jan-Apr 2026, with profits surging 108%, driven by AI demand and industrial upgrading.
—4 min read
Travel & TourismEconomy
China Issues First No-Destination Cruise Permit in Shanghai
China issues its first no-destination cruise permit in Shanghai, letting passengers sail international waters using just their national ID card.
—5 min read
EconomyRegulation
China's Anti-Monopoly Enforcement Surges in 2025
China's 2025 anti-monopoly report reveals 22 cases concluded, 706 mergers reviewed, and 60,000 policy measures amid intensified fair competition efforts.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Walloon Debt Debate: Fact-Checking the €820 Million Claim
The PS accuses Wallonia's government of adding €820M to regional debt. A fact-check reveals both sides have valid points in a complex fiscal debate.
—5 min read
EconomyInternational
Jan De Nul Wins $10 Billion Paraná River Dredging Contract
Belgian dredging giant Jan De Nul wins a landmark $10 billion contract to deepen Argentina's Paraná River, a vital agricultural export waterway.
—5 min read
EconomyEurope
Dutchman Rob Smeets Appointed CEO of Port of Antwerp-Bruges
Rob Smeets named permanent CEO of Port of Antwerp-Bruges with a six-year mandate to lead a €5 billion investment drive and sustainability push.
—4 min read
EconomyLabor
Volvo Ghent Strike Ends as Workers Accept Supplier Deal
A four-day strike at Plasman, a key Volvo Car Gent supplier, ends after workers narrowly approve a deal. Production can gradually resume.
—4 min read
EconomyEurope
Record Quarter Million Belgians Now Working as Flexi-Jobbers
A record 261,868 Belgians worked as flexi-jobbers in 2025, up 14% from 2024. The tax-free scheme faces praise and criticism as expansion looms.
—4 min read
EconomyDefense
China Halts Ammo Supply to Belgian Arms Maker FN Herstal
China halts nitrocellulose supply to FN Herstal as FN Browning posts record billion-euro sales, exposing Europe's defense supply chain vulnerability.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China's May Commodity Index Signals Steady Economic Growth
China's May CCPI rose to 132.5 points, up 0.3% month-on-month and 20.2% year-on-year, signaling steady economic growth amid sector divergence.
—4 min read
Economy
172,000 Jobs Added in May, But Young Graduates Left Behind
The U.S. added 172,000 jobs in May, beating expectations. But with underemployment at 43%, a separate crisis is unfolding for young graduates.
—7 min read
EconomyPolitics
Red States Lure Americans With Lower Housing Costs
Red states attract new residents with lower housing costs and deregulation, contrasting with blue state policies and reshaping population patterns.
—6 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
Pinglu Canal Opens River-Sea Passage for Southwest China
China's Pinglu Canal achieves full water filling, creating a direct river-to-sea passage for Southwest China and boosting trade with ASEAN nations.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
YMTC Captures 13% of Global NAND Market Eyes STAR Market IPO
Chinese chipmaker YMTC surges to 13% global NAND market share amid AI-driven memory boom, with quarterly revenue up 445% and a Shanghai IPO on the horizon.
—5 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Grain Harvest Surpasses 40% Completion
China's summer wheat harvest reaches 42.23% with 143 million mu reaped. Anhui leads at over 80% as cross-provincial machinery support intensifies.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Expands Housing Provident Fund With Higher Loan Limits
China upgrades housing provident fund across 60+ cities with higher loan limits, expanded coverage for flexible workers, and new usage scenarios.
—5 min read
TourismEconomy
China Upgrades Tax Refund Policy to Boost Inbound Tourism
China unveils version 2.0 of its departure tax refund policy with eight measures to make refunds faster and easier for international tourists.
—5 min read
HealthEconomy
China's Innovative Drug Industry at a Tipping Point: Xinhua
Xinhua calls for accelerated China innovative drug development as record BD deals top $100B and AI transforms R&D, but warns of weak basic research.
—6 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Housing Policies Spark Extended Spring Rally in China Market
New housing policies in Shenzhen, Beijing and Shanghai drive an extended spring rally in China's second-hand home market, with volumes and prices rising.
—5 min read
EnergyEconomy
China Braces for Record Summer Power Demand of 1.3B kW
State Grid forecasts summer peak power load will exceed 1.3 billion kW, a 6% year-on-year increase, as China prepares for record electricity demand.
—4 min read
SocietyEconomy
Belgian Pension €572 Short of Care Home Costs, Report Finds
Belgian pension of €1,787 falls €572 short of monthly care home costs at €2,359, Okra's 2026 Barometer reveals, raising affordability concerns.
—4 min read
Belgian PoliticsEconomy
Belgian Arizona Coalition Tax Reform Passes First Hurdle
Belgium's Arizona coalition tax reform clears first reading in committee, moving toward a plenary vote with phased implementation through 2031.
—4 min read
EconomyRetail
Colruyt Expands Fresh Bread Rollout in Supermarket War
Colruyt expands fresh bake-off bakery to ten more Belgian stores, marking a strategic shift in the supermarket wars for bread customers.
—4 min read
JusticeEconomy
Belgian Police Raid 10 Firms in €8.5M Leave Fraud Probe
Belgian authorities raid ten Liège companies and arrest seven suspects in a €8.5 million paid education leave fraud scheme involving over 150 firms.
—4 min read
EconomyDigital
Belgians Flock to Foreign E-Commerce, Local Shops Lag
Belgians spent a record €18.3 billion online in 2025, but Chinese platforms like Shein and Temu captured most of the growth.
—4 min read
EconomyLabor
Volvo Ghent Strike: 4,000 Workers Idle as Crisis Deepens
A strike at Plasman, a key Volvo Ghent supplier, enters its third day with no resolution. 4,000 workers are on economic unemployment as production halts.
—4 min read
BusinessEconomy
SpaceX, Anthropic IPOs and Texas Leads Fortune 500: Roundup
SpaceX files for record $75B IPO, Anthropic goes confidential, Texas tops California in Fortune 500, and American Airlines cuts routes amid fuel crisis.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
US Jobless Claims Hit Highest Level Since Iran War Began
US jobless claims rose to 225,000, the highest since the Iran war began in February, signaling growing economic strain from the conflict.
—4 min read
Health & EnvironmentEconomy
Screwworm Found in Texas Decades After Eradication
The New World screwworm, a flesh-eating livestock parasite, has been confirmed in Texas for the first time since 1966, triggering urgent quarantine.
—5 min read
Global FinanceEconomy
Gold Surpasses US Treasuries as Top Global Reserve Asset
ECB reports gold has overtaken US Treasuries as the largest global official reserve asset, marking a historic shift in central bank reserves.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
South Korea Rides AI Chip Boom to Rare China Trade Surplus
South Korea achieves rare trade surplus with China as AI memory chip exports surge 243% in May, reshaping regional trade dynamics amid US export controls.
—4 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China Harvests 119M Mu of Summer Wheat, Exceeding 30% Target
China has harvested 119 million mu of summer wheat, reaching 35% of the target. Favorable weather and mechanized operations drive the rapid harvest.
—4 min read
TourismEconomy
Trip.com's $2.2 Billion Plan to Make China Top Tourist Hub
Trip.com Group announces $2.2 billion campaign to attract 200 million overseas travelers to China and make the country the world's top tourist destination.
—4 min read
Social PolicyEconomy
China Allocates 99.9 Billion Yuan in Childcare Subsidies
China's Finance Ministry allocates 99.9 billion yuan in childcare subsidies for 2026, a 10.6% increase, to address the country's declining birth rate.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Ranks Among World's Leading Innovative Countries
China ranks among the world's top innovative nations as R&D spending hits 3.93 trillion yuan, a new National Bureau of Statistics report shows.
—4 min read
Governance & PolicyEconomy
China's Governors Go Underground: Mine Safety and Reform
Four Chinese governors inspect mine safety after a deadly disaster; Yunnan halts county rankings; eight ministries launch jobs drive.
—5 min read
EconomyChina
China's Economic Shift: Trillion-Yuan Cities and Pensions
Nanchang nears trillion-yuan GDP status, savings bonds join personal pensions, and China's low-altitude economy accelerates toward industrialization.
—5 min read
TourismEconomy
China's Tourism Boom: Record Visitors and Industrial Tourism
China's tourism surges with 7.51 billion scenic spot visitors in 2025, Shanghai leads tax refunds, and industrial tourism emerges as a new trend.
—5 min read
EconomyEmployment
Brussels Job Seeker Benefits Drop 28% — But Not Good News
Brussels job seeker benefits dropped 28%, but total registrations rose 4.2% and CPAS welfare cases surged 72.2% amid reform-driven shifts.
—4 min read
SportsEconomy
3 in 10 Belgian Sports Clubs to Raise Fees Next Season
At least 30% of Flemish sports clubs will raise membership fees by 10% next season as rising costs and VAT rules squeeze volunteer-run organizations.
—5 min read
EconomyLabor
Belgian CEO Puts Salary on Billboard as EU Deadline Looms
A Belgian CEO displays her €10,000 monthly salary on a billboard, reigniting the pay transparency debate as Belgium misses the EU directive deadline.
—4 min read
TourismEconomy
Pass Visit Wallonia: 130,000 Sign-Ups, Discounts Unused
Wallonia's tourism pass has 130,000 registered users, but only 20,000 are active. Discount redemptions at major attractions are as low as 2%.
—4 min read
EconomyJobs
US Private Sector Adds 122,000 Jobs in May, Beats Forecasts
The US private sector added 122,000 jobs in May, exceeding forecasts. ADP report shows broad-based hiring gains across industries and business sizes.
—4 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Florida Property Tax Overhaul: Winners, Losers & What's Next
Florida voters will decide on a constitutional amendment that could eliminate non-school property taxes for most homeowners but penalizes newcomers.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China Maps 63 Tech Sectors for Potential Export Controls
Chinese researchers identify 63 strategic technologies for potential export restrictions, signaling a major shift in the US-China tech rivalry.
—5 min read
EconomySocial Policy
China's New Food Delivery Rules Target Ghost Kitchens
China's sweeping new food delivery regulations take effect June 1, targeting ghost kitchens, mandating AI oversight, and imposing fines up to 200,000 yuan.
—5 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Wheat Harvest Nears 30% in Three Summers Peak
China's wheat harvest reaches 28% completion as the Three Summers farming season intensifies, with record mechanization and favorable weather.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Gold Crashes Below $4,500 as Iran Threatens Hormuz Blockade
Gold fell below $4,500 per ounce as Iran escalated Middle East tensions by threatening to block the Strait of Hormuz, triggering market turmoil.
—5 min read
Social PolicyEconomy
China Expands Housing Fund for Renovations and Daily Costs
Chinese cities expand housing provident fund use for renovations, elevator installations, property fees, and heating, unlocking trillions in idle funds.
—5 min read
AgricultureEconomy
Storms Destroy 20% of Belgian Cherry Harvest
Severe rain and hail have destroyed 20% of Belgium's cherry harvest in Limburg, with some growers losing up to 40% of their crop just weeks before picking.
—5 min read
Economy
Fuel Prices Rise Again in Belgium Amid Iran Conflict
Belgian fuel prices rise again: petrol reaches €1.874 and diesel climbs to €2.08 per liter as the US-Iran conflict roils global oil markets.
—4 min read
EconomySocial Policy
China Allocates 999B Yuan in Childcare Subsidies, Up 10.6%
China allocates 999 billion yuan for childcare subsidies in 2026, a 10.6% increase, as part of efforts to boost the declining birth rate.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Ghent Surges to 10th in Global Tech Hub Rankings
Belgium's Ghent ranks 10th worldwide and 4th in Europe for tech density, surpassing New York and Amsterdam with €61B in tech value and four unicorns.
—6 min read
EconomyBusiness
Transuniverse Saves 282 Jobs in Ziegler Belgium Acquisition
Transuniverse takes over most Ziegler Belgium activities across seven sites, saving 282 of 415 jobs. Van Moer Logistics acquires air freight division.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
CEOs and Bond Markets Warn of Recession as Inflation Mounts
CEO confidence plunges below optimism threshold while bond yields surge, signaling a potential economic downturn threatening Trump and Republicans.
—6 min read
EconomyPolitics
Georgia Gas Prices Set to Spike as Tax Suspension Expires
Georgia's gas tax suspension expires at midnight, adding $0.33 per gallon. Kemp declines extension amid budget shortfall and election debate.
—4 min read
EconomyWorkforce
Remote Work, Not AI, Is Sidelining Recent College Graduates
New research from the NY Fed finds remote work, not AI, is the primary driver of rising unemployment among recent college graduates.
—5 min read
Policy & StandardsEconomy
China Enforces 102 New National Standards Starting June 1
China implemented 102 new national standards on June 1, 2026, covering fire safety, EV batteries, formaldehyde limits, aging society, and SME financing.
—4 min read
Economy
China Manufacturing Flatlines as May PMI Shows Mixed Signals
China's manufacturing PMI slipped to 50.0 in May, ending two months of expansion. High-tech sectors thrive while exports and SMEs struggle.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
People's Daily Demands Answers on 'Sky-High' Compensation
People's Daily questions a 190 million yuan compensation in Hebei, calling for transparency as a former official is detained over state asset loss.
—5 min read
EconomyPolicy
China Launches New SOE Reform Plan for Emerging Industries
China launches its third major SOE reform plan (2026-2029), directing state capital toward strategic emerging industries like AI and green energy.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
BNP Paribas Fortis to Replace 1,000 Jobs with AI by 2028
BNP Paribas Fortis plans to replace 1,000 jobs with AI over three years through natural attrition, signaling a major shift in Belgian banking.
—4 min read
EconomyLabor
Expert Debunks 4 Myths About Belgium's New Pay Rules
A PwC expert debunks four myths about Belgium's new pay transparency rules taking effect June 7, from salary negotiation to colleagues' pay.
—5 min read
EconomySociety
June 1: Insurance, Health, Eco-Cheque Changes for Belgians
Belgium's June 1 regulatory update: right to be forgotten extended, HPV vaccine reimbursement expanded, eco-cheque rules broadened, and more.
—4 min read
EconomyTransport
Rising Fuel Prices Drive Belgians to Trains, SNCB Reports
SNCB reports 10% surge in train ticket sales as rising fuel prices push Belgians toward rail travel amid the ongoing energy crisis.
—4 min read
HousingEconomy
Flanders Tightens Rules on Airbnb Amid Housing Crisis
Flanders tightens short-term rental rules, requiring Airbnb registration and giving local councils stronger powers to tackle illegal lets.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Powell Warns Against Political Pressure on Fed in JFK Speech
Former Fed Chair Jerome Powell used his JFK Profile in Courage Award speech to warn against political pressure on the Federal Reserve, courts and schools.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Bond Market Inflation Warning Adds to Trump Midterm Woes
Rising Treasury yields signal investor concern over U.S. fiscal policy as the Iran war and tax cuts drive inflation fears ahead of the midterms.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
All 31 Chinese Provinces Release 15th Five-Year Plans
All 31 Chinese provinces have released their 15th Five-Year Plans (2026-2030), outlining blueprints for modern industry, domestic demand, and livelihoods.
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
China Urges Export Tax Rebate Cuts as Surplus Hits Record
Chinese researchers urge cutting export tax rebates after a record $1.2 trillion trade surplus to boost household spending and ease trade tensions.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
China's Hidden Debt Falls as LGFV Operational Debt Looms
China's hidden local debt fell 3.8 trillion yuan, but 14.8 trillion yuan in LGFV operational debt and high-interest loans create a new financial challenge.
—6 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Launches State-Owned Enterprise Sci-Tech Alliance
China launches a Central Enterprise Sci-Tech Achievement Industrialization Alliance to bridge lab research and commercial production.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
China's Power Market Trading Volume Surges 25.6%
China's electricity market trading volume jumped 25.6% YoY in early 2026, driven by power market reform and full renewable energy market entry.
—4 min read
EconomySociety
Hangzhou's 'Accompanying Team' Model Supports Startups
Hangzhou introduces an 'entrepreneurship accompanying team' model, pairing experienced mentors with startup founders for full-process guidance and support.
—5 min read
TradeEconomy
China Fines 11 Firms in Rare Earth Export Control Crackdown
China penalized at least 11 companies for illegally exporting rare earths and critical minerals, intensifying enforcement of strategic resource controls.
—5 min read
EconomyTourism
China Issues Landmark Policy to Boost Industrial Tourism
Seven Chinese ministries jointly issue a landmark policy to develop industrial tourism, promoting factory tours, smart experiences, and heritage sites.
—4 min read
CultureEconomy
China's Guochao Trend Surges as Cultural Confidence Grows
China's Guochao trend accelerates as Gen Z embraces domestic brands blending tradition with modern design, projected to exceed 3 trillion yuan by 2028.
—5 min read
EconomyFood
China's First BBQ Academy Graduates Inaugural Class of 30
Yueyang BBQ Academy in Hunan graduates its first cohort, standardizing traditional barbecue into replicable skills for employment and overseas expansion.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Manufacturing PMI Holds at 50.0% in May
China's May manufacturing PMI held at 50.0%, as high-tech sectors surged while SMEs and traditional industries struggled.
—4 min read
TravelEconomy
Zhuhai Border Crossings Hit 100 Million as GBA Travel Booms
Zhuhai border crossings surpass 100 million passengers 16 days earlier than 2025, driven by GBA tourism and northbound vehicle policies.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Targets €6.7B Savings by 2029 in New Budget Plan
Belgium's Arizona coalition unveils a €6.7 billion savings plan by 2029, with measures on salary indexation, pensions, energy taxes, and air travel.
—5 min read
FinanceEconomy
Global Capital Flows Into China as MSCI Adds 19 Tech Stocks
MSCI adds 19 Chinese tech stocks as global capital shifts from short-term allocation to long-term commitment, with QFII holdings nearing 200 billion yuan.
—4 min read
EnergyEconomy
Belgium: Grid Operators to Compensate Solar Panel Owners
Walloon government mandates grid operators to compensate solar panel owners when systems disconnect due to grid saturation, with payments starting in 2027.
—4 min read
EconomyRegional
56 Flemish Municipalities Raise Property Taxes in 2026
Fifty-six Flemish municipalities raised property taxes in 2026, part of a wave of 88 Belgian towns increasing rates. See which are affected.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Blue-State Wealth Flight: A 2026 Warning Sign for Democrats
Billionaires are fleeing blue states over proposed wealth taxes. Analysts warn the exodus could become a major political liability for Democrats in 2026.
—6 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump Appeals Order Allowing Universal Tariff Refunds
Trump administration appeals a court order allowing all importers to seek refunds for $166B in struck-down IEEPA tariffs, potentially freezing repayments.
—5 min read
EconomyGeopolitics
SCO Fast-Tracks Plans for New Bank to Rival Western Lenders
The SCO accelerates plans for a development bank to rival the IMF and World Bank, signaling a push to reshape global financial architecture.
—4 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China Releases 51 AI-Energy Scenarios for Power Grid
China releases 51 high-value AI + Energy scenarios at a Shenzhen conference, targeting smart grids, virtual power plants, and computing-power coordination.
—4 min read
Infrastructure & TransportEconomy
China-Laos Railway Reaches 100,000 Passenger Train Trips
The China-Laos Railway has surpassed 100,000 passenger train journeys, carrying 73.38 million passengers since 2021 in a major BRI milestone.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Wang Yi Says Canada Could Double Exports to China
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visits Canada for the first time in a decade, suggesting Ottawa could double exports to China as bilateral relations thaw.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
China Issues RMB 6 Billion Green Sovereign Bonds in HK
China issues RMB 6 billion in green sovereign bonds in Hong Kong, attracting 62.4 billion in subscriptions and reinforcing green finance leadership.
—5 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China's EVs Are Getting Heavier, Posing Industry Challenges
China's new energy vehicles have gained 27.5% in weight since 2020, driven by larger batteries and features, raising safety and infrastructure concerns.
—5 min read
Society & CultureEconomy
Ghost Takeout Crisis: Record Fine Exposes Regulatory Gaps
China's investigation uncovered 67,604 ghost kitchens on major delivery platforms, leading to a record 35.97 billion yuan fine and new food safety rules.
—6 min read
EconomyChina
China Approves Yacht Free Travel for Greater Bay Area
China's State Council approves a landmark yacht free travel scheme for the Greater Bay Area, unlocking marine tourism and a 100-billion-yuan industry.
—4 min read
Society & CultureEconomy
China's Summer Box Office: 53 Films and Bold New Models
China's summer box office season kicks off with 53 films, hit 'Letter to Grandma,' and innovative 'Movie+' models transforming cinemas.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium Passes 2026 Law on Salaries, Pensions and Energy
Belgium's parliament approves the Arizona coalition's programme law with capped wage indexation, pension reform, energy tax changes and flight taxes.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium Approves €60M Tax Credit for Commuters Amid Crisis
Belgium's Parliament approved a temporary tax credit for commuting expenses, part of an €80M energy relief package amid soaring fuel prices.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Belgium Fuel Prices Drop 10 Cents Per Litre from Friday
Belgian petrol and diesel prices drop over 10 cents per litre from Friday, offering relief at the pump amid high living costs.
—4 min read
EconomyTransport
Belgium Raises Flight Tax: What It Means for Travelers
Belgium increases its flight tax on short and long-haul flights through 2029. Here's how much more you'll pay and what experts say.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
The End of the Barcode: Why 2027 Marks a Retail Revolution
The traditional barcode is being phased out by 2027 in favor of QR codes. Here's how the Sunrise 2027 transition will change shopping.
—5 min read
JusticeEconomy
New Antwerp Prison Empty as Government Pays €2M Monthly Rent
A new 440-cell prison in Antwerp stands empty due to technical issues and staffing shortages, while Belgium pays nearly €2 million monthly in rent.
—5 min read
EnergyEconomy
Wallonia Mandates Solar Panel Disconnection Compensation
Belgium's Walloon region requires grid operators to compensate solar panel owners when systems disconnect due to grid overload, in a landmark policy.
—5 min read
Economy
Inflation Hits 3.8%, Consumer Sentiment at Record Low
US inflation hits 3.8% in April, highest in three years, as consumer sentiment plunges to a record low amid the Iran war-driven energy crisis.
—7 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Treasury Prepares Trump $250 Bill as 160-Year Law Blocks
Treasury Secretary Bessent confirms a $250 bill design featuring Trump, but a 160-year-old law banning living people on currency blocks its path.
—5 min read
Health & BiotechnologyEconomy
China's Biotech Surge at ASCO 2026 Challenges US Dominance
Chinese biotech firms set records at ASCO 2026 with 95 abstracts and a $10.5B Pfizer-Innovent deal, fueling concerns over US drug dominance.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China's AI Boom Drives Record Profits and Tech Surge
China's AI sector drives 24.7% industrial profit growth, sparks optical communication export boom, and ignites a funding frenzy among AI startups.
—5 min read
EconomyPolicy
China Unveils 15th Five-Year Urban Renewal Plan
China issues first urban renewal five-year plan as logistics surge, trade-in policies boost consumption, and economists debate export rebate cuts.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgian Chamber Approves Pension Reform and Centenindex
Belgium's Chamber approves pension bonus-malus reform, centenindex wage cap, and energy support in an overnight legislative session.
—5 min read
EconomyBelgium
Bpost Sees 50,000 Extra Packages Per Day on Holiday Pay
Bpost is processing 50,000 extra packages daily, a 10% surge driven by holiday pay. The company says no delivery delays are expected.
—4 min read
Economy
Bpost CEO: Social Agreement a Step Forward, Work Remains
Bpost CEO Chris Peeters calls new social agreement an important step after weeks of strikes, but warns the company's transformation is far from complete.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Walloons Want Tax Cuts and More Spending, Survey Reveals
The 2026 National Budget Survey reveals 40% of Walloons prioritize tax cuts while demanding more state spending, challenging Belgium's austerity plans.
—4 min read
Economy
China Urged to Cut Export Tax Rebates as Surplus Hits Record
Chinese economists call for targeted cuts to export tax rebates after the trade surplus hit a record $1.2 trillion, sparking debate over export-led growth.
—4 min read
Economy
Zeeman Closing 150 Stores Across Europe, Spares Belgium
Dutch discount retailer Zeeman is closing up to 150 stores across Europe by 2028, but its 270 Belgian stores remain unaffected.
—4 min read
EconomyUnited States
Nearly Half of U.S. Households Couldn't Afford Basics in '24
Brookings report: 45.5% of U.S. households couldn't cover necessities in 2024, as stagnant wages and rising costs deepen the affordability crisis.
—5 min read
Economy
Tomatoes Become the Face of America's Affordability Crisis
Tomato prices have surged 40% as tariffs on Mexican imports, the Iran war, and climate factors create a 'perfect storm' squeezing American consumers.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
PCE Inflation Hits 3.8% in April as Spending Power Erodes
The Fed's preferred PCE inflation gauge rose to 3.8% in April, squeezing households as incomes fall and savings dwindle, complicating rate cut prospects.
—4 min read
EconomyAgriculture
U.S. Cattle Herd at 75-Year Low, Driving Beef Prices Higher
The U.S. cattle herd has fallen to 86.2 million head, the smallest since 1951. Drought, screwworm, and consolidation are driving beef prices higher.
—6 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Swing Voters Factor High Gas Prices Into Midterm Calculus
NPR's Swing Shift project finds swing voters factoring high gas prices into midterm decisions as a new poll shows 63% blame President Trump.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Treasury Prepares $250 Bill Featuring Trump's Portrait
The Treasury Department has prepared designs for a $250 bill with President Trump's portrait, but a 160-year-old law and stalled Congress stand in the way.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
China Tech Sector Catches AI Funding Fever
Chinese AI startups, chipmakers and internet platforms are raising billions as a capital frenzy fueled by US tech valuations sweeps through China.
—6 min read
EconomyTechnology
China Industrial Profits Surge on AI Boom, Fastest in 2 Yrs
China's industrial profits surged 24.7% in April, the fastest in over two years, driven by AI demand, semiconductors, and higher oil prices.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Financial Power Steady Under 15th Five-Year Plan
China advances financial power construction under the 15th Five-Year Plan with double-digit loan growth and 800 billion yuan in new policy instruments.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
New Quality Productive Forces Power China 15th Plan Economy
From fusion energy to humanoid robots, China's new quality productive forces drive high-quality development in the 15th Five-Year Plan era.
—5 min read
Economy
China Logistics Data: 5.5% Growth Signals Surging Momentum
China's Jan-Apr logistics value reached 121.7 trillion yuan, up 5.5% YoY. High-tech manufacturing and instant retail surge as cross-border networks expand.
—5 min read
EconomyChina
China's Trade-In Policy Drives $28.7 Billion in Spending
China's trade-in policy has benefited 31 million consumers and driven 207 billion yuan in sales as Beijing expands subsidies to smart home and AI products.
—4 min read
DiplomacyEconomy
10th China-South Asia Expo to Open in Kunming June 11-16
The 10th China-South Asia Expo runs June 11-16 in Kunming, featuring 60+ countries, a new Procurement Matching Center, and 800 free booths for South Asia.
—4 min read
Food SafetyEconomy
Shuanghui Apologizes After Pork Antibiotics 37.5x Over Limit
China's top meat processor Shuanghui apologizes after pork tests 37.5 times the legal antibiotic limit, sparking food safety fears and stock sell-off.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Industrial Profits Surge 18.2% Led by High Tech
China's industrial profits grew 18.2% in Jan-Apr 2026, led by high-tech manufacturing and electronics as economic transformation accelerates.
—4 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
Pinglu Canal Excavation Complete, Set to Open September 2026
China's Pinglu Canal in Guangxi completes main channel excavation. The 134.2-km waterway, the first canal since 1949, will open in September 2026.
—4 min read
RegulationEconomy
China Cracks Down on 'Involution' in Key Industries
China's market regulator launches an eight-month crackdown on 'involution-style' competition in live streaming and food delivery.
—4 min read
International RelationsEconomy
China-ASEAN Cooperation Delivers Tangible Regional Benefits
China and ASEAN deepen ties with FTA 3.0 upgrade, surging trade, and the China-Laos Railway delivering real benefits to communities.
—5 min read
Real EstateEconomy
China's Second-Home Market Surges in Key Cities
China's second-hand home transactions surged in Q2 2026, with Beijing and Shanghai hitting multi-year records amid government support.
—5 min read
International CooperationEconomy
Chinese Enterprises Drive BRICS Smart Manufacturing Push
At the BRICS forum in Xiamen, Chinese enterprises showcase smart manufacturing and innovation driving cooperation with partner nations.
—5 min read
EconomyChina
China Blends Tourism, Sports and Night Economy for Growth
China expands summer consumption through multi-format integration, blending tourism, sports, and night economy to boost domestic demand.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Chinese AI Models Shift from Free to Value-Focused Strategy
China's AI industry pivots from free services to paid subscriptions as ByteDance's Doubao leads with tiered pricing, signaling market maturation.
—5 min read
EconomyPolicy
All 31 Chinese Provinces Prioritize New Energy in Plans
All 31 Chinese provinces make new energy the top priority in their Five-Year Plans, revealing a nationwide green energy push and strategic differentiation.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Votes on Landmark Pension and Indexation Reforms
Belgian parliament votes on centenindex and pension reform after months of delay. The measures will impact wages, benefits, and retirement for millions.
—5 min read
FinanceEconomy
Foreign Investors Hold Over 4 Trillion Yuan in A-Shares
CSRC Vice Chairman Liu Haoling announces foreign investors hold over 4 trillion yuan in A-shares, marking a milestone in China's capital market opening-up.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Electrabel Pays Record €10.4 Billion Dividend to Engie
Electrabel distributes €10.4 billion to French parent Engie in Belgium's largest-ever profit distribution, raising questions about capital outflows.
—5 min read
SocietyEconomy
Pessimism Spreads Among Belgians as Economic Anxiety Deepens
Nearly 7 in 10 Belgians believe the economy has worsened, a major national survey reveals, with sharp regional divides over government austerity measures.
—4 min read
Economy
Belgian Inflation Hits 4.08% in May as Energy Costs Bite
Belgium's inflation rose to 4.08% in May, driven by surging energy prices linked to the Middle East conflict. Diesel up 33.7%, airline tickets soar 69.1%.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Ghent Ranks 4th in Europe, 10th Globally in Tech Ranking
Ghent jumps to 4th in Europe and 10th worldwide in Dealroom's 2026 tech city ranking, driven by startups, unicorns, and university innovation.
—5 min read
Labor & IndustryEconomy
Thy-Marcinelle Strike Escalates in Charleroi
Strike at Thy-Marcinelle steelworks in Charleroi intensifies as workers block cold-phase access, protesting inadequate severance for 179 threatened jobs.
—4 min read
EconomyConsumer
Fuel Prices in Belgium Set to Drop Significantly on Friday
Belgian fuel prices drop sharply on May 29: petrol down 11.8 cents, diesel down 10.3 cents per liter, driven by US-Iran peace optimism.
—4 min read
EconomyDefense
FN Browning Acquires British Precision Rifle Maker AI
Belgian arms giant FN Browning Group acquires UK-based Accuracy International, bolstering its precision rifle portfolio and UK defence industry.
—4 min read
SocietyEconomy
Six Major Changes Take Effect for Belgians on June 1, 2026
From insurance and health to eco-cheques and rail jobs, six key policy changes come into force for Belgians on June 1, 2026.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
45.5% of U.S. Households Can't Afford Basics, Brookings Says
Brookings report: 45.5% of U.S. households can't afford basics. Stagnant wages, high costs, and new inflation pressures deepen the crisis.
—5 min read
EconomySociety
Food Insecurity in America Surpasses Pandemic-Era Levels
New York Fed data shows 10% of U.S. families now skip meals due to lack of food, surpassing pandemic highs amid rising costs and SNAP cuts.
—5 min read
Economy
U.S. Inflation Hits 3.8%, Fastest Pace in Three Years
The PCE price index rose 3.8% in April, the fastest since May 2023, driven by energy costs from the Iran war and straining household budgets.
—5 min read
HealthEconomy
8% of Americans Uninsured in 2025 as Policy Changes Loom
CDC data shows 8% of Americans lacked health insurance in 2025, but Medicaid cuts and expired ACA subsidies could drive millions more uninsured.
—4 min read
EconomyInfrastructure
Trump Gas Tax Holiday Plan Threatens Infrastructure Funding
Trump's gas tax holiday push could worsen an infrastructure funding crisis as the Highway Trust Fund faces a $17 billion shortfall.
—5 min read
EconomyUnited States
US Jobless Claims Rise to 215,000; Layoffs Low Amid Iran War
Weekly US jobless claims rose to 215,000, but layoffs remain historically low despite economic uncertainty from the Iran war and rising oil prices.
—5 min read
Trade & DiplomacyEconomy
US to Seek Public Comment on Chinese Goods for Tariff Cuts
U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced a public comment process to determine which Chinese imports qualify for lower tariffs.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
China Revenue Rises as Spending Slows, Profits Surge
China's fiscal revenue rose 6.7% in April while spending fell 3.2%. Industrial profits surged 24.7% on AI and energy demand, signaling a mixed economy.
—5 min read
Real EstateEconomy
China's First-Tier Cities See Housing Market Recovery
Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou and Shenzhen show clear signs of housing market recovery as stimulus measures drive price stabilization and surging volumes.
—5 min read
EconomyEurope
Belgium Faces 2.5 Billion Extra EU Payment Each Year
The European Commission's proposed €2 trillion budget could force Belgium to pay an extra €2.5 billion per year, straining its tight national budget.
—5 min read
EconomyLabor
GSK Workers in Belgium Denounce 'Unacceptable' Cuts
Renewed labor tensions at GSK in Belgium as workers denounce reduced severance terms for six employees, calling the situation 'extremely worrying.'
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China Halts Rare Earth Exports to Japan
China confirms suspension of rare earth exports to Japan, citing nuclear ambitions and remilitarization fears in a major bilateral crisis.
—5 min read
Science & TechnologyEconomy
China's Commercial Space Sector: Key Growth Areas Identified
People's Daily analysis examines where China's commercial space sector must focus for growth: reusable rockets, innovation ecosystems, and policy support.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
Guangdong Launches $14B Strategic Industry Fund
Guangdong launches a 100-billion-yuan strategic industry fund with no fixed term, pioneering long-cycle investment in AI, new energy, and manufacturing.
—5 min read
EconomyBusiness
China Sees 20,000+ New Foreign Firms in Early 2026
China established over 20,000 new foreign-invested enterprises in Jan-Apr 2026, up 6.8% YoY. High-tech FDI surged 20.3% as overall FDI dipped.
—4 min read
EconomyChina
Shenzhen Population Hits 18 Million, Leads China in Growth
Shenzhen's permanent population exceeds 18 million for the first time, with 2025 growth of 259,000 ranking first among Chinese cities.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
China Scraps Fixed Time-of-Use Power Pricing in 9 Provinces
Nine Chinese provinces cancel fixed time-of-use electricity pricing, shifting from government-set rates to market-driven pricing in a landmark reform.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
China's Historic Breakthrough in Shale Oil Exploration
China's Shengli Jiyang shale oil zone surpasses 2M tonnes, unlocking reserves international experts deemed commercially unviable.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
OpenAI CEO Admits AI Costing Fewer Jobs Than Feared
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman says AI is displacing fewer jobs than predicted, admitting 'I’m glad I was wrong' about white-collar job losses.
—5 min read
Economy
US Consumer Confidence Sinks as War-Driven Inflation Bites
Consumer confidence fell in May as gas prices topped $4.50/gallon and inflation hit 3.8%. The University of Michigan sentiment index hit a record low.
—5 min read
EconomyHousing
Homes Not Moving: Five US Cities Hit by Steep Price Cuts
Phoenix, Tampa, San Antonio, Denver, and Portland lead US markets in home price cuts as high rates and inflation cool buyer demand.
—4 min read
EconomyTravel
Airline Miles Lose Value as Iran War Drives Up Summer Fares
Rising jet fuel costs from the Iran conflict are reducing the purchasing power of airline reward miles just as summer travel season begins.
—5 min read
SportsEconomy
World Cup Transit Sticker Shock Hits Fans in US Host Cities
Fans attending the 2026 World Cup face high transit costs in US host cities, with $98 train fares in New Jersey and $80 in Massachusetts sparking outrage.
—6 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
China Water Network Accelerates With $28.7B Q1 Investment
China accelerates national water network with 24,231 projects and $28.7B in Q1 2026. Major projects span Qinghai to Zhejiang, driving growth.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
China Unveils Six Network Roadmaps for Trillion-Yuan Markets
China's six network roadmaps target 7+ trillion yuan annually across water, power, computing, communication, pipeline, and logistics networks.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
China High-Tech FDI Surges 20.3% in First 4 Months of 2026
China's high-tech FDI grew 20.3% in Jan-Apr 2026, reaching 40.4% of total investment, signaling a shift toward innovation-driven sectors.
—4 min read
AgricultureEconomy
China's Summer Grain Regions Race Rain to Secure Harvest
China's main wheat-producing provinces battle persistent rain to protect the summer grain harvest, deploying thousands of harvesters and drying centers.
—5 min read
EconomyLogistics
China's Cold Chain Logistics Grows Steadily in Q1
China's cold chain logistics demand hit 0.867B tons in Q1 2026, up 4.46%. New energy refrigerated truck sales surged 66.55% as smart storage grows.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgian Municipalities Take Lead on Cadastral Income Reform
Belgian municipalities are bypassing federal inaction to update the 50-year-old cadastral income system, aiming for fairer property taxation.
—4 min read
TourismEconomy
Belgian Coast Records Best Pentecost Weekend in Five Years
The Belgian coast saw 450,000 day tourists and 525,000 overnight stays over Pentecost weekend, the best in five years, boosted by tropical temperatures.
—4 min read
EconomyConsumer
Fuel Prices Force Americans to Cut Back Memorial Day Travel
Rising gas and jet fuel costs, driven by the Iran war, are reshaping Memorial Day travel as Americans opt for shorter trips and closer destinations.
—5 min read
EconomyFood Industry
Pay What You Want: Austin Restaurant Defies Inflation Trend
An Austin restaurant's pay-what-you-will Tuesdays offer a lifeline to diners priced out of dining out as inflation reshapes the restaurant industry.
—5 min read
Economy
Yuan Hits Three-Year High: Where the Currency Is Headed
The Chinese yuan hits a three-year high against the US dollar. Analysts debate the trajectory as Goldman Sachs forecasts 6.5 per dollar.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Chinese AI Giants Race for Capital as Funding Hits $41B
China's AI sector sees a record funding surge as Moonshot AI and StepFun raise over $4.5B in 24 hours, fueling a race for AI dominance.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
China's EV Charging Network Hits 21.96M, Surging 47.4% YoY
China's EV charging infrastructure hit 21.96 million units by April 2026, up 47.4% year-on-year, building the world's largest charging network.
—4 min read
DiplomacyEconomy
He Lifeng Urges APEC Unity at 32nd Trade Ministers Meeting
Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng addresses the 32nd APEC Trade Ministers Meeting in Suzhou, calling for cooperation and regional economic integration.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
China Accelerates Data Infrastructure Under Data Element X
China's National Data Administration says Data Element X initiative is accelerating data infrastructure construction and operation across 43 cities.
—4 min read
Economy
China's High-Tech FDI Surges 20.3% in Early 2026
China's high-tech FDI surged 20.3% in early 2026, reaching 116.33 billion yuan, as over 20,000 new foreign-invested enterprises were established.
—5 min read
Economy
China's Logistics Network Hits 630M Parcels, 160M Tons Daily
China's logistics network handles 630M parcels and 160M tons daily, making it the world's largest market. New Five-Year Plan targets 95% completion.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Mahdi Claims €7B Savings Achievable in Belgian Budget Push
CD&V leader Sammy Mahdi challenges Belgian coalition partners with bold budget proposals, claiming €7 billion in savings is achievable.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Gas Prices Hit 4-Year High as Summer Energy Costs Surge
Gas prices reach $4.55/gal ahead of Memorial Day while electricity bills climb 8.5%. The Iran war drives energy costs to multi-year highs.
—5 min read
EconomyChina
Chinese Yuan Hits Three-Year High Against US Dollar
The Chinese yuan breaks through 6.8 per dollar for the first time in three years, driven by trade surplus and Fed rate-cut expectations.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
Chengdu Launches Regular Low-Altitude Urban Logistics Routes
Chengdu launches regular low-altitude urban drone logistics routes, delivering cargo across the city in minutes. A milestone for China's drone economy.
—5 min read
EconomySociety
China's 'Savvy Silvers' Emerge as Key Consumer Force
China's 55-65 'Savvy Silvers' are emerging as a major consumer force, spending on leisure, travel and self-improvement, reshaping the economy.
—5 min read
SocietyEconomy
China Silver Economy Nears 10 Trillion Yuan Elderly Top 323M
China's 60+ population exceeds 323 million as the silver economy nears 10 trillion yuan. Elderly care shifts from supplementary to universal coverage.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
CD&V Chairman Mahdi Fires at Coalition Partners Over Budget
CD&V chairman Sammy Mahdi criticizes coalition partners over the centenindex and outlines a plan to find €7 billion in budget savings.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Belgian Tax 2026: New Measures That Could Cost You More
Belgium's 2026 tax declaration eliminates 47 codes and slashes deductions, potentially costing households thousands. Here's what changed.
—4 min read
EconomyHousing
Belgian Mortgage Rates Hit 12-Year High: Buy Now or Wait?
Fixed mortgage rates in Belgium reach 4.13%, the highest in 12 years. Expert analysis on whether to buy a home now or wait amid geopolitical turmoil.
—4 min read
BusinessEconomy
Shein Buys Everlane: Fast Fashion Giant Acquires Rival
Chinese fast-fashion giant Shein acquires sustainable brand Everlane in a $100M deal, sparking customer backlash and greenwashing concerns.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Gas Price Crisis Grips US Ahead of Memorial Day Weekend
National gas prices hit $4.55/gallon as Iran war disrupts oil supplies, California battles Chevron, and 45M Americans face costly holiday travel.
—6 min read
EconomyEnergy
Summer Electric Bills Sizzle as Cost of Cooling Climbs
Americans face soaring summer electric bills as rising temperatures and higher energy prices drive cooling costs up 8.5%, straining household budgets.
—5 min read
EconomySociety
China's Silver Economy Nears 10 Trillion Yuan in Aging Boom
China's silver economy approaches 10 trillion yuan as the 60+ population exceeds 323 million, marking a major shift to universal elderly care.
—4 min read
TechnologyEconomy
AI Drives Two-Way Shift in China's Labor Market, Survey
A new Zhaopin survey shows AI is creating and destroying jobs in China simultaneously, with AI hiring surging 12x while vulnerable roles shrink.
—6 min read
EconomyTrade
China Overtakes US as Germany's Top Investment Source
Chinese companies launched 228 investment projects in Germany in 2025, surpassing the US for the first time since 2017, a new GTAI report shows.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
China State Council Advances Unified Market, PBOC Law Reform
Premier Li Qiang chairs State Council meeting advancing unified national market, approving emergency system plan, and discussing PBOC law revision.
—4 min read
TransportationEconomy
China Civil Aviation Sets New Record with 61M Passengers
China's civil aviation sector carried 61.2 million passengers in April 2026, a new monthly record, driven by strong international travel growth of 5.8%.
—3 min read
SocietyEconomy
Belgium Food Aid Crisis: 560,000 Rely on Parcels, Budget Cut
Food aid in Belgium hits historic highs with 560,000 beneficiaries, up 251% in 30 years. Budget cuts and unemployment reform deepen the crisis.
—4 min read
Economy
Middle East War Tightens Credit Squeeze on Belgian Firms
The Middle East conflict drives up borrowing costs for Belgian firms as credit tightens, inflation hits 4%, and growth forecasts are cut.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Rejects Social Partners' Wage Indexation Plan
Belgium's majority coalition rejects the social partners' alternative wage indexation plan, maintaining the government's limited indexation reform.
—4 min read
EconomyLegislation
Belgium Must Overhaul Sales Law After Landmark EU Ruling
Belgian Council of State strikes down sales law as incompatible with EU directive, forcing a major legislative overhaul and ending old restrictions.
—4 min read
InfrastructureEconomy
China Unveils $970B 'Six Networks' Infrastructure Mega-Plan
China's NDRC announces 'six networks' infrastructure plan with over 7 trillion yuan annual investment to boost economy and drive digital transformation.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Kevin Warsh Takes Charge of Fed Amid Rising Inflation Threat
Kevin Warsh was sworn in as Fed chair on May 22, inheriting an economy with 3.8% inflation, a divided FOMC, and pressure from Trump to cut rates.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Trump Eases Refrigerant Rule to Address Grocery Costs
Trump loosens federal refrigerant regulations to lower food prices, delaying Biden-era HFC restrictions amid 3.8% inflation and rising grocery costs.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
Gasoline Hits €2/L in Belgium as Iran Conflict Drives Costs
Gasoline prices in Belgium surpass €2 per liter for the first time since 2022. Experts analyze the Iran conflict's impact and what comes next.
—4 min read
LaborEconomy
Ikea Hognoul picketed after union delegate dismissal
Workers picket Ikea Hognoul after a union delegate's dismissal, escalating long-running labor tensions at the Swedish retailer's Belgian operations.
—3 min read
LifestyleEconomy
Walloons Lead Belgium in Organic Food, New Study Shows
Walloons spend €147 per capita on organic food, the highest in Belgium. But while consumption grows, organic production declines for a third year.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgium's Triple Shock: Deficit, Indexation, and Sales Law
Belgium's deficit stabilizes at 5.2% as parliament votes on wage indexation caps and a court ruling upends the nation's sales period system.
—5 min read
TechnologyEconomy
NYC Faces 50% Chance of AI-Driven Job Losses, Report Warns
NYC Comptroller Mark Levine warns thousands of NYC jobs could be lost to AI, urging Mayor Mamdani to build a $13.5B rainy day fund.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Pa. Swing Districts Weigh Rising Costs as Midterms Approach
Voters in Pennsylvania's 7th and 8th districts express deep frustration over rising costs ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Trump Eases Refrigerant Rules in Push to Lower Grocery Costs
President Trump rolls back Biden-era EPA refrigerant rules, claiming $2.4B in savings. Experts question whether grocery prices will actually fall.
—4 min read
Real EstateEconomy
Single Gen Z Women Outpace Men in Homeownership Amid Slump
Single Gen Z women buy homes at nearly double the rate of Gen Z men, even as first-time buyers hit a record low. Experts cite education and independence.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Belgium Faces Twin Budget Crises as Austerity Pressures Rise
Walloon Minister-President Dolimont demands €2B in new cuts while federal coalition faces centenindex vote and €7B budget gap.
—5 min read
Economy
Belgian Fuel Prices Hit Record High as Reserves Dwindle
Belgian gasoline tops €2 per liter for first time since 2022 as Strait of Hormuz blockade depletes global oil reserves, experts warn.
—4 min read
LaborEconomy
Brussels Home Help Workers Protest Service Voucher Crisis
Home help workers protest in Brussels as Belgium's service voucher system faces a deepening crisis, with up to 735 jobs threatened by regulatory changes.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
Ghent Leads Flemish Job Creation with €61B Startup Ecosystem
Ghent outpaces all Flemish cities in job creation, driven by a €61 billion startup ecosystem and foreign investment that generated 1,800 new jobs.
—4 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Oregon Voters Reject Gas Tax Hike Amid Iran War Fuel Crisis
Oregon voters rejected Measure 120, a Democratic-backed gas tax increase, by an 82% margin as the Iran war drives fuel prices to $5.34 per gallon.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
Bond Market Rumbles Again as Yields Hit Multi-Year Highs
Treasury yields are surging to multi-year highs, sending warning signals for stocks, the Trump administration, and global markets.
—5 min read
EconomyTrade
Chinese FDI in Europe Hits 7-Year High Despite Tensions
Chinese FDI in Europe surged to €16.8 billion in 2025, a 67% increase, driven by M&A and record greenfield investment in the EV supply chain.
—5 min read
Health & MedicalEconomy
China Expands Coronary Stent Procurement, Slashing Costs
China renews coronary stent procurement with 4,468 hospitals, expanding access to life-saving cardiac care at reduced prices.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
China Briefs on Preliminary US Trade Consultation Results
China's Commerce Ministry details eight areas of progress from US trade talks, including tariffs, agriculture, Boeing aircraft, and rare earths.
—4 min read
EconomyTrade
China Rare Earth Magnet Supply to Japan Slows
China's rare earth magnet exports to Japan show only a weak rebound in April, as Japanese manufacturers warn of severe supply disruptions.
—5 min read
EconomyFinance
China Vows Zero Tolerance for Listed Company Financial Fraud
China's Ministry of Public Security declares zero tolerance for financial fraud by listed companies, targeting executives and intermediaries.
—5 min read
EconomyTechnology
Yangtze Memory Group Files for A-Share IPO in Landmark Move
China's leading NAND flash maker Yangtze Memory Technology Group files for A-share IPO, a milestone in semiconductor self-sufficiency amid U.S. sanctions.
—6 min read
EconomyTourism
China Launches 'Tax Refund 2.0' to Boost Foreign Tourism
China launches Tax Refund 2.0 with 8 measures to simplify tax refunds for foreign tourists, including paperless processing and mutual recognition.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
China's Fiscal Revenue Grows 3.5% in First Four Months
China's fiscal revenue rose 3.5% year-on-year in Jan-Apr 2026, accelerating from Q1, as tax growth and front-loaded spending signal economic recovery.
—3 min read
EconomyReal Estate
Belgian Mortgage Rates Hit 12-Year High, Adding €30K to Cost
Belgian mortgage rates hit 4.13%, a 12-year high, adding €30,000 in extra interest for homebuyers. Geopolitical tensions and ECB policy drive the surge.
—4 min read
EconomyTechnology
Stellantis to Build Chinese Cars in Europe in Landmark Deal
Stellantis signs deals to manufacture Chinese Voyah EVs in France and explore US collaboration with JLR, marking a strategic shift.
—5 min read
EconomyConsumer
Gas Prices Surge Past $4.80 Ahead of Summer Travel Season
Gas prices are surging past $4.80 per gallon ahead of summer travel, driven by the Iran war and Strait of Hormuz closure. Consumers face higher costs.
—4 min read
EconomyBusiness
Target Sales Surge, Schlitz Ends, Teen Jobs Hit Record Low
Target posts biggest sales jump in 4 years, Schlitz beer ends after 177 years, and teen summer jobs hit record lows in a complex U.S. economy.
—5 min read
EconomyBusiness
2026 CIFTIS Draws 223 Exhibitors, Adds WIPO as Co-Organizer
The 2026 China International Fair for Trade in Services announces 223 enterprises, Norway as guest of honor, and WIPO as co-organizer ahead of September.
—4 min read
HousingEconomy
Gen Z Women Outpace Men in Homeownership, New Data Shows
Single Gen Z women are buying homes at nearly double the rate of Gen Z men, according to new NAR data, bucking broader declines in first-time homebuying.
—4 min read
EconomyLabor
Air Liquide Workers Strike in Seraing Over Job Cuts
Workers at Air Liquide's Seraing site strike over job cuts as unions reject severance proposals and demand better conditions for 61 affected employees.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Brussels Voucher Crisis: 735 Jobs at Risk as Ministers Clash
Up to 735 jobs at risk in Brussels' service voucher sector as a 2024 decree creates legal incompatibility, sparking political blame.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Record Belgians Use Pass-Through Gifts to Avoid Tax
A record 1,251 Flemish families used doorgeefschenking in 2025, transferring €398 million tax-free. How pass-through gifts work and the risks to watch for.
—5 min read
PoliticsEconomy
Walloon Government Breaks Taboos in €2B Austerity Push
Wallonia's MR-Engagés coalition government announces €2 billion in new austerity measures, breaking political taboos and straining coalition unity.
—4 min read
EconomyFinance
Belgium Capital Gains Tax: Opt-In or Opt-Out Deadline Looms
Belgian investors face a May 31 deadline to choose between bank-led capital gains tax withholding or self-declaration. Here is what you need to know.
—5 min read
EconomyAutomotive
Stellantis Launches Affordable E-Car Project for Europe
Stellantis announces E-Car project to produce small, affordable EVs starting in 2028 at its Pomigliano plant in Italy, targeting the European market.
—4 min read
EconomyLabor
Flemish Workers Earned €2,895 Monthly, Gender Gap Narrows
Statistics Flanders data shows the average Flemish worker earned €2,895 net per month in 2024, with the gender pay gap narrowing to €371.
—4 min read
International PoliticsEconomy
Netherlands Revives Push to Tap Frozen Russian Assets
The Netherlands seeks EU support to use €200B in frozen Russian assets for Ukraine, reopening a bitter debate with Belgium over legal and financial risks.
—5 min read
EconomyTaxation
Taboo Falls: Belgian Cities Review Cadastral Income Values
More Belgian cities review decades-old cadastral income values, breaking a political taboo. Leuven leads with a plan to reassess thousands of properties.
—5 min read
EconomyEnergy
Belgian Gas Reserves at Critical Low Ahead of Winter
Belgium's gas storage is only 23.75% full, raising energy security concerns and potential price hikes for consumers ahead of the 2026-2027 winter.
—4 min read
EconomyLabor
Highly Qualified Youth Struggle to Find Jobs in Belgium
Despite rising education levels, highly qualified young Belgians face growing job market difficulties as employers reject overqualified candidates.
—5 min read
EconomyPolitics
Belgian Unions and Employers Unite on Wage Indexation Cap
Belgian unions and employers jointly urge the government to scrap plans to cap wage indexation ahead of a critical vote.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Fermette Tax Debate: Who Will Pay for Belgium's Rural Levy?
Belgium's proposed fermette tax on rural property conversions sparks coalition rift over farmland preservation and housing.
—4 min read
Economy
Belgian Supermarket Prices Fall Despite Surging Inflation
Supermarket prices in Belgium are falling as inflation surges to 4.01%. An economist warns the situation is abnormal and predicts a price shock.
—5 min read
EconomyHousing
Single Tenants in Belgium Spend 55% of Income on Housing
Single tenants in Belgium now spend 55% of income on housing, nearly double the affordability threshold. New data reveals a deepening crisis.
—4 min read
EconomyPolitics
Walloon Service Voucher System Set for Major Reform
Wallonia prepares to reform its titres-services system as Minister Jeholet warns of financial strain, labor shortages, and risk of undeclared work.
—4 min read
EconomyEnergy
Diesel Prices in Belgium Drop to €2.116 Starting Saturday
Belgian diesel prices fall by 6.2 euro cents to €2.116 per liter starting May 16, offering modest relief after weeks of war-driven increases.
—3 min read